Ukraine prepares security framework to resume air travel - Boryspil airport CEO
Ukraine continues to work on building a security architecture that will allow to resume air travel - already 60-70% complete, Boryspil Airport CEO Oleksii Dubrevskyi said, Interfax-Ukraine reported on Feb. 6.
He disclosed some preparations to reopen air commuting in Ukraine at the Global Outlook: Enduring Change discussion organized by the European Business Association.
"The creation of a fundamentally new security architecture will enable risk management and bring them to an acceptable level," he said.
"This involves establishing a special joint control and coordination center between the military and civilians. I can tell you that Ukraine is seriously working on this option… Experts not only from Ukraine but from around the world are involved. A lot has been done, and a lot remains to be done. As of today, the work that began in 2022 is already 60-70% complete."
According to Dubrevskyi, Boryspil International Airport reopening depends on a decision by the State Aviation Service regarding the partial or complete reopening of the country’s airspace.
He highlighted that this would only happen under conditions of acceptable risk and a satisfactory level of air defense protection.
"We are talking about safety," said Dubrevskyi.
"No one will take risks… we cannot jeopardize the lives of passengers, crews, or personnel. Only after building a security architecture that guarantees safety on the ground, in the air, and along the flight routes can this be possible. And work on this is ongoing. The military now understands what is needed. There is collaboration with our foreign partners to develop this structure, this architecture. If, for example, the military gives the green light and a decision is made, then the State Aviation Service will also approve it."
He also noted that there is a possibility of receiving positive decisions from international aviation security partners soon. This is indicated by a statement from Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary, who expressed readiness to restore flight operations from Ukraine within a month of receiving security clearance.
"I remain optimistic," he added.
"We have very high expectations for this year. I sincerely hope that it will come under the slogan ‘Fly, baby, fly!’"
When asked how long Boryspil Airport would need to resume air travel, Dubrevskyi said it would take 24 hours in warm seasons and 48 hours in winter to prepare for an immediate aircraft landing or technical relocation. To fully restore passenger flight operations, the airport will need approximately three weeks.
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