Ukraine is developing a phased plan to restore air traffic to the country’s airports if a ceasefire agreement is reached. European countries are negotiating a no-fly zone to make Ukrainian skies safe for civilian flights. The Telegraph reports, Chas Pik reports.
Phased restoration plan
The plan envisages that flights will first be able to resume in the western part of Ukraine, and then gradually cover other regions until the entire airspace becomes safe for commercial flights. London has promised to support the resumption of international flights immediately after a peace agreement is reached, which should be an incentive for rebuilding the economy and strengthening the country’s independence. The initiative has been joined by the so-called “coalition of the willing” – more than 30 countries that are ready to provide “normal flight conditions” after the cessation of hostilities. The Royal Air Force of Britain, together with aircraft from other European countries, will patrol Ukrainian skies to guarantee security and prevent a repeat invasion by Russia. At the same time, this will allow passenger flights to Ukrainian cities to be resumed.
Coordination of the initiative
The coordination of the process is headed by the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer, and the President of France, Emmanuel Macron. A joint headquarters is already being created in Paris, and the leaders emphasize that those countries that are not ready to participate in peacekeeping activities should not interfere with others. Thus, the Western partners plan to comprehensively restore Ukraine’s transport infrastructure, which will become a key element of post-war reconstruction. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the war in Ukraine has significantly changed the aviation industry. About 20% of European skies are closed, and most airlines have lost the ability to fly over Russia, which has led to the extension of transcontinental routes.
However, experts warn that even after the agreement is concluded, private airlines may not immediately resume flights over Ukraine. The final decision will depend on security guarantees.
