The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has imposed a fine of $250,000 on Air Canada for operating flights through restricted Iraqi airspace. The violations occurred between October 2022 and January 2023 under the airline’s codeshare agreement with United Airlines, according to Reuters.
The DOT revealed that Air Canada flew multiple routes between the United Arab Emirates and Canada using United Airlines’ flight codes. This breached Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) restrictions that prevent US operators from using certain areas of Iraqi airspace. Despite receiving an investigation letter from the Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP), the airline continued with these operations.
In its statement, the DOT said, “By operating these flights in this manner, Air Canada violated the conditions of its authority to operate and engaged in air transportation without the proper DOT authority.”
The FAA has prohibited US carriers from flying below a specific altitude in Iraqi airspace since October 2020 due to security risks in the region.
The fine and its implications have further fueled interest on Google Trends.
Air Canada responded by stating that it has always adhered to US policies on flights over conflict zones. The airline added that it acted swiftly once it was notified of the violation. The airline explained that the incidents were “unplanned, inadvertent, limited in number, and of brief duration.” The violations, according to Air Canada, occurred while using Boeing 777-300 aircraft, citing factors such as aircraft loads, unexpected weather, and air traffic control delays.
Under the DOT ruling, Air Canada must pay half of the $250,000 fine within 60 days, with the remaining half suspended. However, this suspension is contingent on the airline avoiding further violations within the next year.
As interest in air travel safety continues to rise on Google Trends, Air Canada has ceased codesharing with United Airlines on its Dubai to Toronto route as of January 13, 2023.
