U.S. fines foreign airlines $825,000 for violating airspace rules

In recent months, news emerged regarding significant fines imposed by the U.S. Department of Transportation on two foreign airlines for operating flights under improper conditions. Ethiopian Airlines faced a fine of $425,000 for utilizing United Airlines' designator code while operating flights between Ethiopia and Djibouti between February 2020 and December 2022. The FAA had prohibited such operations for U.S. operators, which Ethiopian Airlines violated. Notably, some violations occurred after the airline was informed of an ongoing investigation into its practices. U.S. officials stated that Ethiopian Airlines engaged in air transportation without proper authority, risking the integrity of airspace regulations. Simultaneously, Etihad Airways incurred a fine of $400,000 for a similar infraction involving the use of JetBlue Airways' designator code. These flights occurred between the United Arab Emirates and the United States in airspace deemed off-limits to U.S. operators, covering a period from September 2002 to April 2023. This action by the Department of Transportation reflects ongoing concerns regarding adherence to aviation regulations and the necessity for compliance among international carriers, particularly those operating in U.S. airspace. Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Airways have been instructed to cease all violations, signaling the government's commitment to upholding air travel safety and legality. By taking these actions, the U.S. aims to reinforce the standards that govern international aviation, ensuring that all airlines comply with the established rules that protect both operators and travelers. The fines serve as a stern reminder for foreign airlines about the serious consequences of disregarding regulations that govern their operations in U.S. airspace.