The US government has strongly criticized China for its effort to ‘impose its political views’ on US and other foreign airlines.
China has ramped up pressure on carriers not to refer to Taiwan as a separate nation on their websites.
The US slammed it as ‘Orwellian nonsense’ and ‘will stand up for Americans resisting efforts by the Chinese Communist Party to impose Chinese political correctness.’
China’s demands also apply to Macau and Hong Kong although Taiwan remains the most sensitive issue.
"The United States strongly objects to China’s attempts to compel private firms to use specific language of a political nature," the White House said in its statement.
United and American Airlines are among the carriers being pressured to change content on websites and apps.
Early this year China demanded and received an apology from Delta Air Lines over the way it had listed Taiwan as a separate county.
China’s aviation regulator then ordered all airlines to ‘strictly comply with China’s laws and regulations to prevent a similar thing from happening.’
China also blocked Marriott International’s Chinese website for several days until it amended its content and issued a groveling apology.
Trade group Airlines for America said in a statement: "We are continuing to work with U.S. government officials as we determine next steps."
