Kyrgyzstan Opens Aviation: Negotiations with Hogan, EU Routes, and Two Airbus Aircraft for Asman Airlines

First Deputy Prime Minister Daniyar Amangeldiyev held talks with James Hogan, chairman of international consulting firm Knighthood Global. The sides discussed prospects for cooperation in civil aviation, expansion of international air connections, modernization of airport infrastructure, and increased competitiveness of Kyrgyz airlines. Following the meeting, both parties expressed interest in further partnership; no announcements were made regarding the signing of agreements or launch of specific projects. Hogan previously headed Etihad Airways and Etihad Aviation Group; he now leads Knighthood Global, which provides consulting services in the aviation sector.

The meeting took place against the backdrop of Kyrgyzstan's systematic emergence from aviation isolation. In June 2024, the republic was removed from the European Union's aviation blacklist, on which domestic air carriers had been listed since 2006. This opened the possibility for Kyrgyz airlines to operate flights to EU countries while meeting necessary requirements. On October 16, President Sadyr Japarov signed a decree rescinding the moratorium on registration of new airlines and issuance of operator certificates, which had been in effect since November 2024.

Kyrgyzstan is negotiating the opening of direct flights with European carriers. As reported on October 27 by Daniyar Bostonov, director of the State Agency for Civil Aviation, routes from Warsaw, Frankfurt, and other EU cities are being considered. In parallel, national airline Asman Airlines is preparing to receive two Airbus A321 aircraft, which will enable long-haul flights; delivery is expected by the end of 2027.

In early October 2024, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) conducted an audit of Kyrgyzstan's state flight safety oversight system—no critical findings were identified. Additionally, the republic is preparing for an audit by British aviation authorities, provisionally scheduled for April of next year; the country remains on the British flight restriction list.