Rebuilding the Skies: Ukraine's Aviation Future

Editor-in-Chief Joe Petrie talks with Ukrainian aviation officials to explore the challenges and opportunities in rebuilding Ukraine’s airport network amid and after the ongoing conflict and how North American and European aviation leaders are spearheading efforts to help the nation.

From infrastructure damage to international collaboration, discover the critical needs and strategies shaping the future of aviation in Ukraine and their goal of building deeper into the European air system. 

A group of aviation industry experts, through the Ukraine Aviation Recovery and Reconstruction Program (UARRP), are working with the Association “Airports of Ukraine” of Civil Aviation (AAUCA) and Ukraine airport officials to assist with the eventual rebuilding and recovery of the Ukrainian airport network. To date, approximately $2 billion in damage has been inflicted on Ukraine’s air transportation system due to the Russian invasion.

Significant and critical parts of the Ukrainian aviation network system have been damaged in the war, including several airports and air traffic control (ATC) systems. This recovery plan prioritizes key restoration projects at numerous airports, addressing terminals, airfields, and landside facilities, as well as essential airport and ground support equipment. These include passenger and baggage screening systems, baggage handling systems, aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicles and equipment, snow removal equipment, cargo handling tools, refueling trucks, ground support vehicles, and airfield lighting, signage, markings, and instrument landing systems (ILS), among others.

The plan also outlines the recovery strategy for UkSATSE, Ukraine’s air navigation services provider, and identifies the training needs for Ukrainian airport staff, whose qualifications have largely been compromised due to the prolonged suspension of operations.

“We are extremely grateful for the efforts of the UARRP team and others across the globe who are engaged with us about the major challenges we face short and long term with our airport network,” said Mr. Petro Lypovenko, President of AAUCA. “We would benefit from various types of support, including grants/donations, in-kind contributions of equipment and materials, sharing of expertise, and training programs for our airports. We look forward to working with our colleagues from around the world to address these critical airport needs,” continued Mr. Lypovenko.

For further information on AAUCA, visit: https://www.aauca.org.ua/en/about