Ukraine may open an airport in time of war: under what conditions and what will happen if missiles are launched

Ukraine is considering the possibility of opening airports even during the war, in particular in Lviv, but experts emphasize the significant risks associated with attacks by Kinzhal ballistic missiles. If they are launched, the approach time is only 10-12 minutes, which makes it difficult to quickly evacuate passengers and ensure safety.

Aviation expert Valeriy Romanenko said this in a commentary to the media. The main danger in resuming flights in Ukraine during the war is the threat of shelling from Russia.

According to Romanenko, the takeoff and landing stages are the most vulnerable for aircraft. During these moments, airliners become potential targets because they need time to reach a safe altitude.

Experts pay special attention to evacuation procedures in case of a threat. The standard time to evacuate passengers from an aircraft is 90 seconds, but this is only possible under ideal conditions. In reality, the evacuation of passengers through inflatable ladders or the main exit can take longer, especially if the threat requires the rapid movement of people to a bomb shelter.

The aviation expert emphasizes the problems associated with the availability of flight schedules. Their publication can be used by the enemy to strike at the airport or aircraft on the territory of the airport. The situation is particularly dangerous with Kinzhal missiles, which have a minimum approach time to Lviv of only 10-12 minutes.

According to experts, flight safety can only be ensured with modern air defense systems. To protect the airport, Patriot systems that can deflect ballistic missiles are needed, as well as medium-range air defense systems to counter cruise missiles and drones. Also important are:

• legal preparation: resumption of flights is possible only after the ban on the use of airspace is lifted;
• technical readiness of the infrastructure: the airport must be repaired and the staff must be trained;
• analysis of security zones: it is necessary to identify regions with minimal risks for the resumption of air traffic.

The resumption of airport operations should be economically feasible. For this purpose, experts say, the airport in Lviv should handle at least ten flights a day. At the same time, even if the airport resumes operations, low passenger traffic is expected, which could make the airport unprofitable. In addition, additional security costs will significantly increase the cost of flights.

As OBOZ.UA previously reported, tourists who like to drink before boarding a plane may be restricted from accessing alcohol at airports. The low-cost airline Ryanair came up with such an initiative.

Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!