Airlines Issue Joint Statement

We, local airlines operating on multiple routes, wish to express our deep concern regarding the decision made by the Government of Armenia on April 23, 2023, about the "Support Program for the Development of Passenger Transportation by Air in the Republic of Armenia." This announcement comes from "FLYONE ARMENIA" and "SHIRAK AIR" airlines.

We believe it is important to note that this program was not coordinated with existing airlines and does not align with the interests of developing the aviation sector in Armenia. In our firm belief, such a program, which is intended to promote tourism, carries a number of dangerous side effects that could seriously disrupt the prospects for the development of local airlines and exacerbate the already unequal competition conditions with foreign carriers, especially considering that the Armenian aviation sector is on the "blacklist" of the EU and several other countries (Israel, United Arab Emirates, etc.).

It is concerning that during the Government session, information was shared that created the impression that the project is acceptable for local airlines operating in Armenia, which is not true. Furthermore, both in writing and orally, the relevant state authorities have been informed about the negative stance of local airlines regarding this decision, which has not been taken into account by the authors of the project.

Emphasizing the priority of Armenia's national interests, we call for the establishment of effective mechanisms for the protection of the legal interests of local airlines.