In a recent development, Ukraine has begun formal talks aimed at reestablishing air service connections with safety authorities in the United States and Europe. This was confirmed by Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov during an interview with RBC-Ukraine, published on March 11.
Since the escalation to full-scale conflict in 2022, Ukraine's airspace has remained closed due to ongoing Russian aerial assaults throughout the nation.
Kyiv is currently awaiting initial feedback from these regulatory bodies and is engaged in discussions with three Ukrainian airlines eager to resume operations, as shared by Kubrakov.
Kubrakov revealed to RBC that Ukraine is actively presenting its strategy for managing the aviation market under martial law conditions to the regulators, alongside its evaluation of associated risks.
While specific details regarding which airports might start functioning again were not disclosed, Kubrakov mentioned that Ukraine is considering "several (different) options."
Ryanair, a leading low-cost carrier, had previously expressed intentions to re-enter the Ukrainian market "once the skies over Ukraine are reopened for commercial aviation." Kubrakov confirmed the airline's plans to return upon airspace clearance.
Moreover, Kubrakov noted that Ukraine is consulting with Israel's civil aviation authority, citing Israel as "the most successful example" of maintaining airport operations despite missile and drone threats.
