Kyrgyzstan Exits EU Aviation Blacklist After 20 Years, Eyes European Flights

After two decades, Kyrgyzstan has officially exited the European Union's aviation blacklist, a significant achievement that opens the door for its national carriers to operate flights to Europe. This development marks a crucial step towards reintegrating the country's aviation sector into international standards.

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Official exit from the blacklist does not mean automatic transition to the white list, six planned audits by the European Commission are ahead.

However, the exit from the blacklist is not an immediate green light for unrestricted travel. Kyrgyzstan must now undergo a rigorous three-year monitoring period, involving six planned audits by the European Commission. "We are currently at an intermediate stage between the black and white lists," stated the press service of "Airports of Kyrgyzstan." "We have confirmed that we meet all EU aviation safety requirements, but now we must confirm this every six months for three years. One failed audit could have negative consequences."

"Airports of Kyrgyzstan" is actively working to attract foreign airlines and expand flight routes, with a particular focus on developing air links with Germany and the United States. The company is also exploring potential direct flights to various European cities, assessing market demand and economic viability.

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We are currently at an intermediate stage between the black and white lists. We have confirmed that we meet all EU aviation safety requirements, but now we must confirm this every six months for three years. One failed audit could have negative consequences.

Simultaneously, efforts are underway to develop the national carrier, Asman Airlines. The airline plans to initiate negotiations with international airports and aviation authorities to launch its own international flights. Chairman of the Board of "Airports of Kyrgyzstan," Manas Samidinov, announced the acquisition of two Airbus A321 aircraft in March 2026, specifically chosen for their capability to fly to Europe. These aircraft are scheduled to arrive in March 2027 and will serve as flagships for Kyrgyzstan's civil aviation, offering a high level of comfort.

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Now we have to do a lot of work to study the demand for potential direct flights, including to European cities. It is important for airlines to understand how commercially viable such routes will be.

With plans to expand its fleet to ten aircraft within the next five years, Kyrgyzstan aims to facilitate flights to numerous international destinations, including Paris, London, and Berlin, further enhancing its connectivity.

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We were confident in the success of the project to exit the blacklist, so we immediately acquired liners capable of flying to Europe. They will arrive in March 2027 and will become the flagships of Kyrgyzstan's civil aviation.