Russian aircraft banned from US airspace

President Joe Biden announced the banning of aircraft owned or operated by Russia from US airspace in his recent State of the Union Address.

“Tonight, I am announcing that we will join our allies in closing off American airspace to all Russian flights, further isolating Russia and adding an additional squeeze on their economy,” Joe Biden declared.

This way, the US fuses with 36 other nations uniting to impose economic and commercial sanctions over Russia, in the light of the escalating conflict in Ukraine.

Russia is also expected to reply, by banning all US aircraft from its airspace, as the route is frequently used for flights to Asia. The move, however, would be extremely costly for Kremlin.

Nevertheless, the decision of the American President translates into higher fuel costs, finding alternative routes, flight delays and cancellations, as well as further disturbances in the global supply chain.

However, Biden reassured the population that the risks were taken into consideration. “I want you to know, we’re going to be OK. We’re going to be OK”, he said.

The measures aim to affect the Russian economy, as Putin refuses to withdraw troops from Ukraine.

“The Ruble has lost 30% of its value. The Russian stock market has lost 40% of its value and trading remains suspended. Russia’s economy is reeling and Putin alone is to blame."

”Throughout our history we’ve learned this lesson — when dictators do not pay a price for their aggression, they cause more chaos. They keep moving, and the costs and threats to America and the world keep rising”, President Biden concluded.

After the official announcement, the Federal Aviation Administration stated that the ban will take effect starting today and will include all passenger, cargo and charter flights.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg commented:

"The United States stands with our allies across the world in responding to Putin's unprovoked aggression against the people of Ukraine."

 

source: travelpulse.com