US Fines Air France and KLM $425,000 Over Iraqi Airspace

The U.S. Department of Transportation fined Air France and KLM a total of $425,000 for violating Federal Aviation Administration prohibitions in Iraqi airspace between early 2022 and 2025. The airlines operated flights below 32,000 feet while carrying Delta Air Lines' code share, ignoring altitude restrictions designed to protect aircraft from ground threats and militant activity.

KLM operated more than 100 flights in the prohibited airspace, while Air France operated more than 30. Both airlines contested the penalties, arguing that the altitude deviations occurred because of direct instructions from local air traffic controllers and should be classified as emergency situations.

The U.S. government requires $265,000 of the total fine to be paid within 60 days. The remaining balance will be payable only if the airlines commit further violations within one year.