Armenia to liberalize airspace by adopting 'open sky' policy

 October 23, 2013 - 17:09 AMT

PanARMENIAN.Net - The government of Armenia confirmed a concept for implementation of competitive and consecutive transportation services, with the adoption of an 'open sky' policy to significantly improve air transportation sector in Armenia.

As Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan stated at a governmental sitting, active discussions were held around the issue, with a numerous suggestions made – ranging from strict regulation of the sector to complete liberalization. To make a correct decision on the issue of key importance, a deal was inked between the National Security Council and McKinsey company for involvement of experts in developing a strategy.

As the Prime Minister noted, after the strategy-related discussions and detailed calculations, the concept for liberalization on the air space was formed to promote GDP growth, creation of jobs, and transportation price decrease.

The airspace liberation became necessary after Armenian national carrier Armavia ceased operations starting April 1, 2013, declaring bankruptcy.

Over 15 legal actions were instigated, the majority of those initiated by Armavia employers demanding salary refunds. AKN PARTNERS tour agency and Spyur company also sued Armavia, with legal proceedings on the majority of cases in progress.

In June, General Department of Civil Aviation of Armenia (GDCA) granted Air Armenia a one-year transportation license for fights to Moscow, St. Petersburg, Krasnodar, Sochi, Rostov-on-Don, Samara. Today (October 23) the company presented its first Boeing 737 jet.