Ukraine plans to resume operations at four airports and introduce new rules for UAVs

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved the Civil Aviation Development Strategy until 2030. The relevant decision is provided for by the Government Resolution No. 677-р dated July 8, 2026.

The document defines the main directions of the restoration of the Ukrainian aviation industry, establishes the deadlines for the restoration of infrastructure, provides for the creation of a national air carrier and the further integration of Ukraine into the aviation space of the European Union.

Four airports are planned to be restored by 2028

One of the key tasks of the Strategy is the restoration of the operation of Ukrainian airports.

The government plans to restore the operation of four airports during 2026–2028. The main emphasis will be on attracting private investment and grant funding.

Before resuming work, airport facilities must undergo a full certification audit. They will be assessed for compliance with updated requirements and European rules in the field of civil aviation.

Thus, the return of airports to operation will involve not only the restoration of damaged infrastructure, but also its adaptation to modern safety and service standards.

Ukraine plans to create a national air carrier

The strategy also provides for the creation of a national air carrier.

The development of the Ukrainian aviation market should take place in parallel with integration into the European Union’s common aviation space.

The document sets a course for harmonizing Ukrainian legislation and aviation rules with EU norms, as well as the implementation of European standards in the field of flight safety and operation of aviation infrastructure.

New rules will be introduced for drone operators

A separate block of the Strategy concerns the development of unmanned aviation.

For operators of unmanned aerial vehicles, it is planned to introduce mandatory certification and categorization depending on the level of risk.

In 2027, new Aviation Rules for the operation of UAVs should appear in Ukraine. They are planned to be harmonized with the relevant regulations of the European Union.

The new requirements should establish uniform rules for the use of unmanned systems in civil aviation and define requirements for their operators.

Aviation enterprises will strengthen cyber defense

The Strategy pays significant attention to issues of cybersecurity in the aviation industry.

Aviation enterprises must implement systems to protect information and digital infrastructure in accordance with the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Strengthening cyber defense should become one of the key elements of the safe restoration of civil aviation, given the increasing digitalization of control systems and aviation infrastructure.

Ukraine will develop the market for sustainable aviation fuel

The Strategy also provides for the development of the market for sustainable aviation fuel.

This involves the introduction of modern fuels, the use of which allows reducing carbon dioxide emissions and reducing the negative impact of aviation on the environment.

This direction is part of Ukraine’s integration into the European aviation system and the industry’s adaptation to EU environmental requirements.

Thus, the approved Civil Aviation Development Strategy until 2030 provides for a comprehensive reboot of the industry – from the restoration of airports and the creation of a national carrier to the introduction of new rules for drones, strengthening cybersecurity and the transition to more environmentally friendly aviation technologies.