Air Canada Fined for Operating Flights in Prohibited Iraqi Airspace

Fine and Violation Details

The U.S. Department of Transportation said Friday it had fined Air Canada US$250,000 for operating flights in 2022 and 2023 in prohibited Iraqi airspace.

The agency had jurisdiction because those flights had United Airlines’ designator code. The violations occurred on numerous flights between the United Arab Emirates and Toronto in airspace that was prohibited by the Federal Aviation Administration to U.S. operators.

The FAA cited the “complex security environment” that exists over Iraq in barring flights. Air Canada must pay US$125,000 of the fine and owes another US$125,000 if it violates the order again within a year. Air Canada stopped codesharing with United on the route in January 2023.

Precedent for Fine

Emirates was fined $1.5 million by the Transportation Department in June for operating flights carrying JetBlue Airways’ code over Iraqi airspace. It was the second time they had been fined since 2020.

Air Canada’s Response

Air Canada said the “incidents were brief, unplanned and inadvertent and due to several factors, including air traffic control restrictions and a switch to a larger aircraft that needed more time to achieve sufficient altitude. Also, safety was not compromised.” The carrier added it has taken action to prevent such incidents from reoccurring.

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Conclusion

Air Canada’s fine is a reminder of the importance of adhering to air traffic regulations and avoiding unauthorized airspace. The airline has taken steps to prevent such incidents from happening again and has been penalized accordingly.

FAQs

* What is the reason for the fine imposed on Air Canada?
The reason is that Air Canada operated flights in prohibited Iraqi airspace.
* What is the amount of the fine imposed on Air Canada?
The fine is US$250,000, with a portion of it to be paid immediately and the rest owed if the airline violates the order again within a year.
* Has Air Canada taken steps to prevent such incidents from happening again?
Yes, Air Canada has taken action to prevent such incidents from reoccurring.