Berlin (TDI): Kyrgyzstan’s aviation industry could soon see a major breakthrough, with the potential removal of its airlines from the European Union’s Air Safety List, which has long prohibited them from operating flights to Europe.
This optimistic development was announced by Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov during a meeting with Johan Pelissier, head of Airbus Europe, in Berlin.
The discussions centered on the future trajectory of Kyrgyzstan’s aviation sector.
Japarov highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to improve aviation safety standards, modernize infrastructure, and align with international regulations.
He expressed confidence that these measures have substantially increased the chances of lifting the EU’s ban on Kyrgyz airlines.
As part of these reforms, Japarov emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the national carrier, Asman Airlines.
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The airline has entered an initial agreement with Airbus to lease two A320 or A321 aircraft, which will facilitate the launch of direct flights to major European destinations, including Paris, Berlin, and London.
This initiative represents a crucial step toward Kyrgyzstan’s greater integration into the global aviation network.
Looking forward, Kyrgyzstan plans to expand its fleet and strengthen its collaboration with Airbus, aiming to build closer ties with the international aviation community.
At the end of the meeting, Japarov invited Pelissier to visit Kyrgyzstan for further talks with local aviation stakeholders.
Ban on Kyrgyzstan’s Airlines
Kyrgyzstan’s airlines have been on the EU’s Air Safety List since 2006.
The EU’s ban, which has persisted for more than 18 years, has severely restricted the operational scope of Kyrgyzstan’s aviation sector.
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However, the recent strides toward regulatory improvements could mark a turning point, with the potential removal from the blacklist signaling new opportunities for growth and enhanced international collaboration.
If successful, this development could open the door to a broader European market for Kyrgyzstan’s airlines, significantly boosting the nation’s aviation industry.
