Air India wants China's help to beat costly flight detours
Air India is hoping China will let its planes fly over Xinjiang, since Pakistan's airspace ban has made long-haul flights way longer and pricier.
With some routes now taking up to three extra hours and fuel costs jumping nearly 30%, the airline says it could lose $600 million a year—much more than last year's losses.
Why does this matter?
Since April, Pakistan hasn't let Indian airlines use its skies, so flights to places like the US, Canada, and Europe have been rerouted or even suspended.
Air India asked in October for access to Chinese airspace near Hotan to save time and money, but that area is sensitive and rarely open to foreign airlines—so far, no green light from Beijing.
The bigger picture
On top of the airspace headache, Air India is still dealing with old tax bills worth $725 million.
Despite these challenges, Air India is seeking ways to maintain its international flight operations for passengers who rely on them.