Russian aviation authorities still have not granted the right of transit flights to Icelandic airlines planning to operate direct flights to Asia, namely China, Japan and South Korea.

Icelandic airlines began the negotiations for transit through Russian airspace in the summer 2017. After a year of talks, little progress has resulted, with Russia aiming to secure US$100 per passenger, one-way, from the Icelandic carriers.

Iceland is blaming its participation in EU sanctions against Russia's as the reasoning behind Russia's decisions.

Both WOW air and Icelandair plan to launch flights to India, and likely other parts of Asia. If access is not granted by the respective carrier's planned launch date, the airlines will route Asia flights via India.

Update: Russia says it is not blocking Icelandic airlines.