Ukraine seeks to restart regular commercial flights and has begun official conversations with air transport regulators from the United States and the European Union.
Alexander Kubrakov, Deputy Prime Minister for Reconstruction and Minister of Community, Territory, and Infrastructure Development, announced the start of negotiations in an interview with RBC-Ukraine. No specific timelines for the possible resumption of flights were specified. The minister emphasized that international flights cannot resume without European and American regulators’ approval. «It’s impossible to operate international flights without the approval of both regulators,» he commented.
The Ukrainian government initiated discussions about the operational framework of the market under martial law, which has been in effect since the beginning of hostilities with Russia two years ago. In addition to the U.S. and Europe, Ukraine is consulting with the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel. «It’s the planning stage. Various scenarios are being considered, and it’s imperative for us to receive feedback from the bodies,» explained Kubrakov. «Several European airlines have expressed interest in resuming operations.» Furthermore, he mentioned that three Ukrainian companies are applying to resume operations.
Bohdan Dolince, consultant to the Ukrainian aeronautical market, explained to Kyiv Post, various obstacles that must be overcome before passenger flights can resume. «Ukraine closed its airspace in 2022, in accordance with international law. Both the EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) and the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) issued directives to airlines under their jurisdiction, resulting in a flight ban to Ukraine,» he explained. «Even if Ukraine lifted its ban, without corresponding actions from the EASA and the FAA, American and European airlines would still be unable to resume flights.»
Dolince, however, is hopeful. The expert highlights the efforts of the Ukrainian authorities to mitigate risks. «Additional measures could be proposed to restore operations. It would also not be unreasonable to introduce additional requirements for specific airports,» he added. Beyond security considerations, infrastructure readiness and staff availability would be primary concerns for airports. Some terminals say they are ready, but others might face challenges due to personnel mobilization.
