Ukraine is again discussing the possibility of restoring civil aviation during the full-scale war. The first potential airports are expected to be in western regions, where flight safety conditions may be easier to organize than in other parts of the country.
What officials say
Volodymyr Kreidenko, deputy head of the parliamentary committee on transport and infrastructure, says that a technical restart of civil aviation is possible. In his view, the process would require coordination between the government, the military, aviation experts and other specialized institutions.
He also points to the experience of countries that have operated aviation under long-term security threats. However, any foreign model would need to be adapted to Ukrainian realities, including air defense conditions, route planning, passenger safety and airport protection.
Possible first airports
Among the possible first locations mentioned are Uzhhorod, Mukachevo, Lviv and other western cities. No opening date has been announced. The key unresolved question is whether the state can provide a clear, public and realistic roadmap for returning civil flights.
A special government group involving officials, military representatives and aviation industry experts was reportedly created earlier, but no finished decisions have yet been presented to the public.
Economic effect
The return of even limited civil aviation would matter for business, investors, tourism, exports of services and international mobility. It would reduce travel time, simplify contacts with partners and show that Ukraine is gradually rebuilding critical connectivity.
Still, aviation cannot restart on political will alone. Security guarantees, insurance, route safety, airport readiness and coordination with all responsible authorities will determine whether the discussion becomes a practical launch plan.
