Aviation expert Konstantin Krivolap criticized the statement made by Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovyi regarding the potential reopening of airports in Ukraine in the near future during a broadcast on KIEV24. According to his words, ensuring flight safety requires real protection against possible threats, including ballistic attacks.
Krivolap emphasized that the current level of protection, even in cities with deployed air defense systems, remains insufficient for the safe operation of civil aviation. He noted that a political solution to this issue is not feasible, as there are international standards and the interests of insurance companies to consider.
For instance, there are ICAO regulations — standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization, which include requirements for physical and technical characteristics, configuration, material components, personnel, and other elements of air travel. According to the expert, it is impossible to "negotiate" with these standards.
"There can't be a political solution regarding safety. A politician cannot claim that it will be safe. This, I apologize, is complete nonsense!" — Krivolap stated.
Additionally, the question arises whether the mayor of Lviv can ensure the safety of passengers, aircraft, and airport personnel as required by ICAO standards, particularly concerning the threat of ballistic missile strikes. Thus, under the conditions of ongoing war and the risk of missile attacks, obtaining permission to resume international flights will be impossible.
"How can a politician ensure safety without having Patriot systems? After all, we still haven't received six such systems," — the expert added.
Previously, Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovyi declared that in 2025, several airports in Ukraine will "definitely" begin operations. He mentioned that there are "technical and other possibilities" for this, but the final decision must be political. However, Sadovyi did not disclose specific details regarding the airports or the conditions for their operation.
It is worth noting that former commander of the Aidar battalion, Yevhen Dykyi, revealed that international partners are not willing to provide Ukraine with additional Patriot air defense systems. He stated that the promised five systems have already been provided, and nothing further has been assured to Kyiv.