Washington:The US Department of Transportation has issued fines totaling $425,000 against Air France and KLM for operating flights under Delta Air Lines' code in airspace where such operations are prohibited.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the fines announced on Friday include $105,000 against Société Air France and $320,000 against KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. The penalty was imposed for operating flights under Delta Air Lines' designator code in airspace restricted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The FAA restricts flight operations by US operators in foreign-managed airspace where conflict, militant activity, or heightened tensions may pose safety risks to civil aviation. Foreign airlines operating flights with a US carrier's code are required to comply with these bans.

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized that adherence to safety rules is mandatory under the Trump Administration for flights carrying a US code. He stated that authorities would hold airlines accountable for any failure to comply with regulations. Both Air France and KLM have been ordered to cease and desist from future violations.