Major US airlines are opposing Air China's request for two additional roundtrip flights between Beijing, New York and Washington, arguing that Chinese carriers' access to Russian airspace gives them an advantage that American competitors cannot match.
The flights are associated with Chinese President Xi Jinping's planned US visit, rather than a permanent increase in service, Reuters reported. Xi is scheduled to visit the United States from September 23–25, 2026, for talks with President Donald Trump.
Airlines for America (A4A), which represents American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and other US carriers, wants the additional flights treated as charters. A4A's objection was posted in the Department of Transportation's public docket on September 17, 2026.
