Ukraine simplifies domestic air transportation to European standards
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President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed the European integration law, which introduces a number of European standards in the field of civil aviation of Ukraine. It simplifies state regulation and creates prerequisites for the earliest possible resumption of the activities of Ukrainian air carriers and airfields, reports the press service of the Ministry of Community Development, Territories and Infrastructure.

The new changes adapt Ukrainian legislation to the norms of the European Union in the field of civil aviation, the provisions of Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 and the Agreement on the Common Aviation Area.

In particular, the new law simplifies the procedures for issuing an airworthiness certificate and permission to fly for aircraft certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This eliminates the need to undergo re-certification in Ukraine.

The need to obtain rights to operate air routes by Ukrainian air carriers for regular air transportation in Ukraine and abroad is abolished. This necessity has also been canceled for charter transportation in Ukraine.

It also establishes the transition to the declarative principle of compliance by enterprises and organizations that provide ground handling services in the field of civil aviation.

Previously, in order for the enterprise to be able to work at an airport, certification was required, which took from three to six months. The changes cancel the certification, but it is necessary to submit a package of documents that confirms compliance with the requirements of the law, and you can work immediately, instead of waiting, the ministry explains.

The provision on the need for certification of companies providing services for the sale of air transportation has been abolished. This norm also applies to companies that train personnel for the organization or sale of air transportation.

"The adopted changes bring us even closer to the EU and the restoration of the aviation industry, make our market clearer for international companies," commented Deputy Minister of Infrastructure Serhiy Derkach.

On April 11, 2023, Eurocontrol announced in its forecast that restrictions on flights over Ukraine will remain in place until 2029. Ukraine's air traffic enterprise Ukraerorukh assured that Ukrainian airspace will be opened immediately after the end of military operations and the victory of Ukraine, and not in 2029.

Today, Ukraerorukh received the second tranche from Eurocontrol to prepare for the resumption of flights.