Kyrgyzstan nears exit from EU air safety blacklist

Kyrgyzstan’s long-standing restrictions under the EU Air Safety List may soon come to an end, according to President Sadyr Zhaparov, who said the country has reached a decisive stage in aligning its civil aviation sector with European safety requirements. Kyrgyz airlines have been barred from operating to, from, and within EU airspace since 2006 due to non-compliance with international aviation safety rules.

Investment-led aviation reforms

Zhaparov said Kyrgyzstan has pursued aviation reform through domestic initiatives, channeling billions of soms into the sector. These efforts include acquiring modern aircraft for domestic, regional, and international routes, as well as expanding and upgrading airport infrastructure across the country, which lies at a strategic crossroads between Central Asia and key transit corridors.

Path toward EU airspace access

“The country has reached a critical threshold in leaving the European Union’s blacklist,” Zhaparov said, expressing confidence that EU skies could soon reopen to Kyrgyz carriers. He framed the aviation push as part of a broader state renewal, describing a safe and technology-driven air transport system as a symbol of national modernization.

Economic and regional impact

Officials believe potential removal from the EU Air Safety List would significantly enhance Kyrgyzstan’s international standing, stimulate tourism, and attract new investment. Integration into a unified aviation space is also expected to expand access to millions of travelers and markets, strengthening regional air connectivity and complementing growing transport ties with countries such as Türkiye.