Ukraine Focused on Restoring Air Traffic, Prioritizing Boryspil Airport

by Roman Cheplyk
Friday, January 19, 2024
2 MIN
Ukraine Focused on Restoring Air Traffic, Prioritizing Boryspil Airport

Ukraine is actively working with international partners to reinstate air traffic, largely suspended since Russia’s invasion in February 2022

The primary focus is on Boryspil International Airport near Kyiv, as stated by Rostyslav Shurma, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine.

Due to security risks to civil aviation following the invasion, Ukraine's airspace was closed, forcing travelers to use road or rail from neighboring countries. The restoration of air traffic is viewed as crucial for boosting the economy.

Shurma, speaking at a panel discussion in Davos, conveyed the intensive efforts underway to resume air services but refrained from specifying a timeline. Ukraine is seeking guidance from Israeli experts on technical aspects, leveraging Israel's experience in air defense for infrastructure protection.

Achieving this goal requires approval from both IATA (International Air Transport Association) and FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), a challenging task dependent on decisive actions by international partners.

John Doyle, CEO of Marsh McLennan, mentioned the Black Sea Corridor grain insurance program as a potential model for broader economic support, including the revival of air travel.

Ukraine is considering options for reactivating either Boryspil airport or another facility in the western Lviv region, with a preference for an international hub near Kyiv. Recent maintenance flights, such as a Boeing 777-300 from Boryspil, demonstrate the airport's operational readiness.

The effort to resume air traffic is part of a broader strategy to revive critical economic sectors and enhance connectivity, reflecting Ukraine's resilience and determination to recover from the conflict's impacts.

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