Emirates has reached an agreement with the US Department of Transportation (DOT) following a fine associated with aircraft operating under JetBlue Airways' designator code in Iraqi airspace that is illegal.
Emirates Settles a Fine Over Iraqi Airspace Violations
Emirates has settled with the US Department of Transportation (DOT) following a fine related to flights carrying JetBlue Airways’ designator code in prohibited Iraqi airspace. On Friday, a spokesperson for the Dubai-based airline disclosed that the incidents involved 122 flights conducted between December 2021 and August 2022.
Details of the Violations
The flights, operated by Emirates while carrying a JetBlue marketing code, breached Special Federal Aviation Regulations (SFAR), restricting US air-carrier codes from operating below 32,000 feet over Iraqi airspace. Emirates acknowledged reaching a settlement with the US DOT in response to these allegations.
According to a report by Reuters, the DOT imposed a $1.5 million fine on Emirates for these violations, citing their operation of flights in airspace prohibited by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This action also contravened a consent order issued in October 2020, which penalized Emirates for previous airspace violations. Under the 2020 order, Emirates was initially fined $200,000 and faced an additional $200,000 penalty if found in violation within a year.
The DOT clarified that the flights in question had entered the Baghdad flight information region at altitudes below the specified minimums outlined by the FAA. The FAA prohibits all US air carriers, commercial operators, and codeshares from flying in these designated areas without specific authorization.
Emirates clarified its intent to operate the 122 flights above 32,000 feet but indicated that deviations into the prohibited airspace occurred due to directives from Air Traffic Control (ATC). This clarification underscores Emirates' compliance efforts amidst the complexities of international airspace regulations and operational directives.
Emirates' settlement with the US DOT resolves the regulatory issues stemming from flights conducted in restricted Iraqi airspace. The incident highlights the challenges airlines face in adhering to stringent aviation regulations and the importance of robust compliance measures in maintaining safe and lawful air travel operations.