US carriers resist adding China routes despite Xi's push for more flights

Chinese President Xi Jinping suggested adding more direct flights between the United States and China during a visit to Washington in the week to 25 September 2026, but US airlines are showing little enthusiasm. The American civil aviation industry has less interest in new routes between the two countries as long as its aircraft are unable to fly over Russian airspace.

Key facts

• What was proposed: more direct flights between the US and China, put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington
• Who is holding back: US airlines, according to analysts
• Stated obstacle: US carriers cannot fly over Russian airspace
• Passenger interest: travellers in both countries would welcome more direct services
• No new routes, dates or flight numbers have been announced

What has been proposed?

Xi raised the idea of more direct US-China air links during his visit to Washington this week. The suggestion targets travellers in both countries, who analysts say would welcome additional non-stop services. No specific routes, carriers, frequencies or start dates have been made public.

Why are US airlines reluctant?

Analysts say demand for more direct flights exists, but US carriers will resist adding routes while their planes cannot pass over Russian airspace. Chinese airlines are described as having an advantage over their US peers in this situation. The source does not set out the details of that advantage or any figures on capacity or demand.

What this means for travellers

For now, nothing changes for passengers booking between the US and China: no additional direct flights have been confirmed, and no timetable has been published. Anyone planning travel between the two countries should treat the proposal as a suggestion only and check current direct-flight options when booking.

No further steps, decisions or dates have been announced beyond Xi's call for more direct services.