Dubai-based Emirates Airlines addressed a recent $1. 5 million penalty imposed by the U. S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for operating flights in restricted Iraqi airspace. The airline confirmed the settlement but clarified the circumstances surrounding the incidents.
According to the DOT, Emirates violated regulations by flying 122 passenger flights carrying JetBlue Airways' code between December 2021 and August 2022 within the Baghdad Flight Information Region (FIR) below a specific altitude. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) enforces limitations on U. S. carriers and those operating under their code-sharing agreements in this particular airspace.
Emirates acknowledged the flights but emphasized their intention to maintain a safe altitude above the restricted zone. The airline maintains that unforeseen air traffic control (ATC) instructions necessitated a descent into the prohibited area. The spokesperson highlighted that prioritizing passenger and crew safety remains paramount, and Emirates pilots are trained to comply with ATC directives in such situations, aligning with international aviation safety protocols.
This incident marks the second time Emirates has faced repercussions for breaching FAA regulations in Iraqi airspace. In October 2020, the airline received a $200, 000 fine for similar violations. The subsequent consent order stipulated an additional $200, 000 penalty for repeat offenses within a year. While the DOT hasn't explicitly linked the latest fine to the 2020 order, it raises questions about potential recurring issues.
Emirates did not explicitly admit any wrongdoing in the settlement agreement. However, reaching a financial resolution with the DOT suggests a desire to move forward and maintain a smooth relationship with U. S. aviation authorities. The airline is likely to implement stricter internal protocols to ensure stricter adherence to FAA regulations in the future, particularly regarding code-shared flights traversing sensitive airspace.
The incident highlights the complexities of international air travel regulations, particularly when code-sharing agreements are involved. It underscores the importance of clear communication and adherence to established safety protocols between airlines, air traffic control entities, and aviation regulatory bodies across different countries.