The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has argued for the continued use of certain flight corridors through Russian airspace to reduce operational burdens on airlines. William Walsh, the CEO of IATA and a former leader of British Airways, contends that reopening these routes would help lighten the load on carriers. This view has circulated in commentary published recently in a major daily outlet.
Walsh stated that the West should prepare to reopen Russian airspace to ease the strain on airlines. The piece notes that Russia’s airspace, which spans a vast expanse across many time zones, was closed shortly after the invasion of Ukraine began in February.
Despite sanctions and safety concerns, some Middle Eastern and Chinese carriers continued to traverse Russian routes, while Russia’s own passenger traffic faced constraints linked to Beijing’s strict COVID-19 policies. In this context, Walsh anticipates that China will lift most travel restrictions next year, potentially giving Chinese airlines a commercial edge over rivals such as British Airways, which face longer routes when using Russian airspace.
Walsh urged careful consideration of any reopening, suggesting that Russian airspace could once again support efficient Siberian flight paths that connect Europe to Asia, while noting that this should not occur while the wartime situation persists.
Historical data show that Russia collected a significant share of airline revenues through top-flight fees in the pre-war period, highlighting the economic impact of airspace closures. The current bans on airspace in Russia and Ukraine are presenting ongoing challenges for international carriers, with European skies becoming busier as demand trends shift.
Looking ahead, Walsh believes that traffic patterns will gradually revert to more typical levels once hostilities subside. He also points out that European airlines have started to press Brussels for a reassessment of the flight ban in Russian airspace.
In related commentary, industry leaders have weighed in on policy choices regarding access to Russian routes. Some have supported restricting access for security reasons, while others argue for parity and level playing fields among carriers operating over Russia, especially when considering Western sanctions and safety concerns.
As discussions continue, regional authorities and international bodies are watching developments closely. The current stance by various governments involves complex considerations of security, economic impact, and the broader goal of maintaining safe and efficient global air travel.