The Ukrainian airline SkyUp has achieved a significant milestone by securing approval to operate on US soil. This permission was granted through the foreign airline certificate FAR129.
SkyUp’s CEO, Dmytro Seroukhov, thanked the company team for their professional approach and commitment in achieving results. Furthermore, he emphasized the trust and opportunity given by the US authorities to operate in their country.
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The SkyUp fleet that received authorization to fly in US airspace consists of four Boeing 737-800 aircraft: UR-SQB, UR-SQC, UR-SQF, and UR-SQP.
This certification involves approval from the Department of Transportation (permission to conduct business as an air carrier on US soil), TSA approval (meeting aviation security requirements for air transport to or from the US), and FAA approval (Part 129 Operations Specifications).
As part of its strategy in the new US market, the airline plans to develop ACMI (Wet-leasing) services and charter flights.
The Resilience of SkyUp Airlines
SkyUp Airlines has shown remarkable resilience throughout its short five-year history, facing multiple challenges, from the COVID-19 pandemic to the Russian invasion that has closed Ukrainian airspace since February 2022.
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Originally conceived as a low-cost airline, SkyUp adjusted its operating model to face these adversities. During the pandemic, they managed to adapt despite decreased demand, but the war completely halted their regular operations in Ukraine.
In response, the airline chose to operate under ACMI contracts worldwide, leasing their aircraft along with their crew to other airlines. This flexibility allowed them to maintain a presence in the aviation market despite the closure of Ukrainian airspace.
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SkyUp’s ability to adapt and find new opportunities amid challenges is a testament to its determination and perseverance. Despite the difficult circumstances, the company continues to seek ways to operate and contribute to the aviation sector.
The airline currently operates with two Boeing 737-700s and nine Boeing 737-800s. During an armed conflict in Sudan, a Boeing 737-800 (UR-SQH) was completely destroyed in Khartoum.
