The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has imposed a $250,000 fine on Air Canada for airspace violations. The airline operated flights with United Airlines’ code over a region where the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had banned U.S. operators from flying.
The FAA restricts flights over Iraqi airspace due to security risks in the region. However, Air Canada contravened these rules, according to the DOT.
Between October 2022 and January 2023, the airline flew several times between the United Arab Emirates and Canada. These flights carried United Airlines’ code but passed through airspace which is off-limits to U.S. operators.
The DOT Investigation
The DOT’s Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) looked into the matter. They found that Air Canada kept flying these routes even after receiving a warning letter. The DOT claims this violated Air Canada’s operating authority and amounted to unlawful air transportation.
Air Canada’s Response
Air Canada defended itself, calling the incidents “unplanned, inadvertent, limited in number, and of brief duration.”
They pointed out various factors which led to the violations. In one case, the airline had to use a Boeing 777-300 instead of a Boeing 787 on the Dubai to Toronto route. This change led to a longer climbing time, causing the aircraft to enter restricted airspace.
Besides the fine, the DOT ordered the Canadian flag carrier to stop similar violations in the future. This “cease and desist” order aims to prevent the airline from repeating such mistakes.
Why It Matters
This case highlights the importance of following international aviation rules. Airlines must respect flight restrictions, even when operating code-share flights for other carriers. The steep fine serves as a warning to other airlines about the consequences of ignoring these regulations.
The airline will now likely review its procedures in order to avoid future violations of this nature. This is especially so in regions with complex airspace restrictions.
The DOT settlement will require Air Canada to pay half of the fine imposed in 60 days. The remaining half will be suspended for a year, proving there is no further violation by the carrier.
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