The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): American airline companies are currently grappling with heightened competition from Chinese airlines. They have approached President Joe Biden’s administration for support, citing “anti-competitive” actions by Beijing and an advantageous use of Russian airspace by Chinese carriers. Specifically, US airlines and their associated trade groups and employee unions have called on the administration to stop approving additional US flights for Chinese airlines.
This appeal was formalized in a letter addressed to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg. The letter highlighted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, China not only halted international flights but also implemented new operational requirements that continue to disadvantage US airlines. Additionally, it was noted that Chinese airlines receive governmental protections that further skew competitive dynamics.
Despite an increase in permitted flights between the countries—from 35 to 50 weekly round trips per country as arranged by the Biden administration—US airlines are not fully utilizing their allotment, unlike their Chinese counterparts. The disparity in flight usage underscores concerns within the US aviation industry about losing market share to Chinese operators.
In November last year, during a summit in San Francisco, Presidents Biden and Xi Jinping agreed to expand direct flights between the two nations to foster better cultural and economic exchanges. However, US carriers argue that the ongoing use of Russian airspace by Chinese airlines provides them with an unfair route efficiency advantage, especially since US carriers ceased flying over Russia after the escalation of the Ukraine crisis in February 2022.
Further complicating the issue, the US House of Representatives’ anti-China committee has echoed the airlines’ concerns. They have also pressed for a policy that would prohibit Chinese airlines from utilizing Russian airspace for flights to and from the US, citing safety and geopolitical risks.
This escalating dispute highlights significant tensions in international aviation and trade, reflecting broader geopolitical dynamics and the intricate interplay of global transportation logistics.