Trump Administration Proposes Ban on Chinese Airlines Using Russian Airspace for US Routes Amid Escalating Trade Tensions

Oct 10, 2025 03:36 pm CST

The Trump administration has proposed banning Chinese airlines from flying over Russia on US routes, citing unfair competitive advantages these carriers gain through reduced flight times and lower fuel costs. This move represents another escalation in ongoing US-China trade tensions, affecting major Chinese carriers while potentially impacting Boeing's negotiations to sell 500 jets to China. The Transportation Department calls the current situation "unfair" with "substantial adverse competitive effects" on US airlines, which have been barred from Russian airspace since March 2022.