Lawmaker Urges Flight Limits Over Rare Earth Access

Representative John Moolenaar, chair of a House committee on China, urged the Trump administration to restrict or suspend Chinese airlines' landing rights in the United States unless Beijing restores full access to rare earths and permanent magnets.
He also called for a review of export controls covering sales of commercial aircraft, parts and maintenance services to China, saying such actions would signal that Beijing cannot choke off critical inputs to U.S. defense industries without consequences to its strategic sectors.
Rare earths — a group of 17 elements used in lasers, military systems, electric-vehicle and wind-turbine magnets, and consumer electronics — have become a geopolitical lever. In April, China added several rare earth items and magnets to its export restriction list in response to U.S. tariff hikes.
U.S. carriers currently fly only a fraction of permitted services to China amid low demand. The Transportation Department recently extended limits allowing United, American and Delta to operate a combined 48 weekly flights out of 119 approved; Chinese carriers fly an equivalent number.
Reports indicate Beijing may consider buying up to 500 Boeing jets as part of trade discussions. U.S. carriers declined to comment and the Chinese embassy did not immediately respond. Airlines and unions previously urged flight-approval pauses, citing perceived anti-competitive Chinese policies.