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Kyrgyzstan is set to be removed from the European Union’s aviation safety blacklist, a step that could eventually allow airlines registered in the Central Asian country to operate direct flights to destinations across the 27-member bloc, officials in Bishkek said.
The Kyrgyz president’s office said late Monday that the country had been “removed from the list of air carriers subject to a ban on operating flights to the European Union.”
Kyrgyzstan has remained on the blacklist since it was created in 2006 because of concerns in Brussels over the safety standards and oversight of airlines registered in the former Soviet republic.
The decision has not yet taken effect and still requires final approval from the European Commission.
Kyrgyzstan’s civil aviation authority said it had received notice from EU transport officials following a meeting held in mid-May.
In a statement to Agence France-Presse (AFP), the authority described the expected removal as a “historic” decision and a “victory” that would “open up new opportunities” for air travel.
Removal from the blacklist could allow Kyrgyz airlines to seek the necessary approvals to begin direct services to EU countries.
The move would end restrictions that have applied to Kyrgyz carriers for nearly two decades, though the final European Commission decision is still required before the change can enter into force.
Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked Central Asian country that is seeking to use tourism as a source of economic growth.
The government has eased visa requirements and invested in infrastructure as part of efforts to attract more international visitors.
The country is promoting its rugged mountain ranges and extensive nature reserves as major tourism destinations.
Officials expect improved aviation links with Europe to create additional opportunities for travel and support Kyrgyzstan’s plans to expand its tourism sector once the blacklist removal receives final approval.
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