I like how the NYT is spinning this but if you take a step back - it's clearly a cope out by Obama. Proclaiming some huge diplomacy 'break through' when its nothing more then a flippant promise that could be revoked next week.
The US has been aiming since, I believe, as early as 2002 to establish airbases somewhere within Central Asia to relive the logistical strain of using airports in Afghanistan and instead of supporting us Russia has been right there condemning the establishments, asking for their withdrawal and what have you. The only reason they haven't put more pressure on Kazakhstan (where the big one's are located), by which I mean invade, is because the country is the new regional powerhouse to the Central Asia scene. Russia does not want to alienate her, especially with a creeping NATO yet Russia happily goes through the SCO to rant, rave, et against the US/ISAF presence within the country constantly.
Recently they have been more entertained with invading George, occupying the breakaway regions and getting the UN Peacekeepers out for the eventual annexation of Georgia itself. Though the animosity remains.
For Russia to give us the ability to go through their 'airspace' (no airports, notice that!) is like giving a saltine cracker in return for kicking someone in the nads. Sure, flying over Russia is great (not that it would change much strategically) but I think we should consider that we need airbases to land airplanes on; yeah, that whole strategery [sic] rearing its ugly head again.
I think a real feat would be a promise of Russia to stop their policy of pressuring Central Asian countries like Uzebekistan to give up their American bases - better yet, use Russia for airbases! Now that would be a true breakthrough, not this - this is just a bunch of hot hair over-hyped by a devoted media outlet who doesn't matter that they have framing issues.
Not to mention missile defense, Georgia, SCO concerns, trade wars, civil rights, Iran, North Korea, Moldova (especially its break away region) and what have you. Those are still around... But thank goodness we can go over airspace we don't need! Load off my back, that's for sure.