Ukraine is ready to resume air traffic by 95%: when it can happen and what is necessary for safety

Ukraine's aviation infrastructure is almost completely ready for the resumption of flights, but the main factor delaying the launch of air traffic remains ensuring passenger safety. This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister for Reconstruction of Ukraine, Minister of Community and Territorial Development Oleksiy Kuleba in an interview with the national TV channel "Suspilne".

According to Kuleba, at the moment the aviation service of Ukraine is ready to resume flights by 95%. However, for this to be possible, it is necessary to ensure an adequate level of security at Ukrainian airports. The main condition for the opening of air traffic is the presence of "serious" air defense (ADF) means that are capable of guaranteeing protection from threats, including missile strikes.

"The security architecture provides for serious air defense means, which are currently deployed at the front. Therefore, when we can provide the required level of air defense for a particular airport, only then will we be able to consider opening flights," the minister emphasized. Kuleba also noted that the situation at the front is the main factor that will determine the timing of the resumption of air traffic in Ukraine.

Planning the launch of flights at airports such as Lviv or Boryspil requires about 45-50 days from the moment of making a decision. However, according to Kuleba, even after the required level of security is ensured, the resumption of air traffic will depend on the military situation in the country.

The minister emphasized that even given optimistic forecasts, the resumption of air traffic in Ukraine in 2025 is possible only if the situation at the front is stable. "We must be realistic, therefore all other aspects of the country's development will depend on the front. Security in aviation and other areas can be achieved only after the stabilization of the military situation," he added.

Thus, although the infrastructure and preparations for the resumption of air traffic are at a high level, to launch flights in Ukraine, it is necessary to fully ensure security, which depends on the continuous development of air defense means.