Skyline Express' Boeing takes off from Kiev's Borispol Airport

MOSCOW. Dec 20 (Interfax) - The technical ferrying of a Boeing 777-300 aircraft from Kiev's Borispol International Airport to Europe was carried out on Tuesday at Ukrainian airline Skyline Express' request, Ukrainian media reported, citing the airport's press service.

"This is the fourth successful ferrying of an aircraft from the Borispol Airport since the start of the crisis. Even as airspace is closed, the Borispol Airport remains focused on ensuring operational readiness and financial sustainability," the company said on social media.

The flight complied with the flight's safety standards in line with the directives that are in effect for the period of martial law in Ukraine, the Ukrainian airport said. The flight was performed without passengers and cargo on board.

It is specified that since airspace over Ukraine was closed, Skyline Express aircraft were parked at the Borispol Airport, where they underwent technical support and maintenance.

"This strategic initiative paves the way for the resumption of regular operations as soon as an appropriate risk assessment allows this," the statement said.

Skyline Express Airline is currently providing passengers with flights from Poland and the Baltic States to seaside resorts in Europe, Turkey, and Egypt. Its fleet includes one Boeing 737-800, five Boeing 757-300s, three Boeing 767-300ER and one Boeing 777-300.

Ukraine's civil aircraft register currently lists only two Boeing 777s: the Boeing 777-200 of the bankrupt International Airlines of Ukraine and the Boeing 777-300ER of 2007, which was registered on July 14, 2023 for the period until May 2024. It was previously registered with Azur Air Ukraine. Aercap Ireland Capital Designated Activity Company is identified as the owner of the aircraft in the register.

The skies over Ukraine were closed shortly after the crisis began on February 24, 2022.