The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has fined Lufthansa and SWISS for breaking airspace rules. Lufthansa must pay $220,000, while SWISS faces a $200,000 fine. These fines show how important it is to follow the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules on restricted airspaces.

From March 2022 to April 2024, Lufthansa flew planes with United Airlines’ designator code in restricted U.S. airspace. SWISS did the same from February 2022 to March 2024. Both airlines broke FAA rules that forbid U.S. operators and their partners from entering certain airspace without permission.

The DOT’s investigation found that both Lufthansa and SWISS flew in areas where FAA restrictions apply. Even though the flights used United Airlines’ code, they did not have the right permissions to be in those airspaces.

The DOT’s fines show that the agency is serious about enforcing airspace rules. Both Lufthansa and SWISS must change their operations to follow FAA guidelines. The DOT also warned that these fines aim to make sure airlines follow the rules and keep air travel safe in U.S. airspace.

Lufthansa and SWISS have agreed to stop flying in restricted areas without permission. They also promised to follow FAA rules in the future. These fines remind all airlines to get the proper approvals when flying in these areas.

These actions are part of the DOT’s larger effort to hold airlines responsible for breaking airspace rules. It’s a reminder to all airlines that ignoring FAA guidelines can lead to big fines and damage their reputation.

Following airspace rules is key to keeping U.S. airspace safe. The penalties against Lufthansa are part of the DOT’s broader crackdown on airspace violations, making sure all airlines respect FAA regulations.

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