Oleksandr Kubrakov/Photo: Press service of the Ukraine 30 Forum
Ukraine is commencing official discussions with US and European aviation regulators regarding the potential resumption of international flights during martial law. Oleksandr Kubrakov, Deputy Prime Minister for Reconstruction and Minister of Community Development, Territories, and Infrastructure, announced this initiative.
Kubrakov emphasized the necessity of obtaining approval from both European and American regulators for the operation of international flights.
«The Ukrainian side is already sharing with the regulators its vision of how the market will operate under martial law, its risk assessment, approaches, and algorithms», — he stated in an interview with RBC-Ukraine
Highlighting the unique challenges of operating airports under martial law, Kubrakov mentioned the consultation efforts with the Israeli Civil Aviation Authority, given Israel’s successful experience in such conditions.
While refraining from specifying potential airports to be opened, Kubrakov expressed that several European airlines, including Ryanair, have shown keen interest in utilizing Ukraine’s airspace. Ryanair, in particular, has submitted numerous applications, expressing a desire to capture a significant market share immediately after airspace reopening. Additionally, negotiations are in progress with three Ukrainian airlines.
Although no specific timeline was provided, Kubrakov affirmed the intention to officially convey Ukraine’s vision to the regulators and engage in formal negotiations for the resumption of international flights.