The recent diversion of an Air India jetliner to Russia due to engine
problems has highlighted the ongoing tensions surrounding the use of Russian
airspace. Russia's ban on certain foreign carriers using its airspace in
response to Ukraine-related sanctions has disrupted air routes and business
models for airlines, forcing them to fly longer routes.
While many U.S., European, and Japanese carriers have stopped flying over
Russia, Air India and some Gulf-based and Chinese airlines continue to do so,
giving them a cost advantage and shorter flying times.
The disagreement among airlines underscores the strategic importance of
Russia as a pivotal crossing point between
the West and the East, with the International Air Transport Association calling
for an opening up of Russian airspace. |