Canada opens door to China flights, but airlines may stay grounded

Canada says it will allow more direct flights to China, hoping to mend ties and attract Chinese tourists. But airlines hesitate due to high fuel costs and a ban on flying over Russia. Last week, Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon announced an "incremental" increase in direct passenger flights to China, plus up to 20 cargo flights per week. The move is part of Ottawa’s effort to rebuild relations with Beijing. However, carriers face soaring jet fuel prices. They also cannot use Russian airspace, which makes longer routes more expensive. Without those conditions easing, airlines may not add new routes despite the government’s green light.