Lufthansa and Swiss explain why they had to fly trough blocked airspace.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has fined Lufthansa and Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) for operating flights through airspace prohibited by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).Lufthansa received a $220,000 fine, while SWISS was fined $200,000.These penalties were imposed because both airlines conducted flights carrying United Airlines' designator code through regions where the FAA has restricted U.S. operators from flying.
The violations occurred between March 2022 and April 2024 for Lufthansa, and between February 2022 and March 2024 for SWISS.The FAA prohibits U.S. carriers and their codeshare partners from flying below 32,000 feet over certain regions, including Baghdad airspace, due to safety concerns.
Both airlines acknowledged the violations and attributed them to air traffic control constraints in the regions concerned.They stated that, despite filing flight plans in accordance with FAA regulations, local air traffic controllers did not authorize the required altitudes, leading to the infractions.Lufthansa emphasized that the safety of its passengers and crew is its top priority and that it has internal procedures to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
The DOT has ordered both airlines to cease and desist from future similar violations.Additionally, half of the fines will be forgiven if the airlines commit no further violations over the next year.
This action is part of a broader enforcement effort by the DOT.Earlier this year, the department fined other international carriers, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Air Canada, for similar violations involving prohibited airspace.
The FAA maintains flight restrictions over various regions worldwide due to safety concerns arising from conflicts or geopolitical tensions.Airlines operating flights under U.S. carrier codeshare agreements are required to adhere to these restrictions to ensure passenger safety.