Ukrainian-based SkyUp Airlines has secured foreign air carrier certification, FAR129, enabling it to operate in the U.S. market, the company said in a message on its website on Sept. 25.
According to the press release, four of the airline’s Boeing 737-800 aircraft: UR-SQB, UR-SQC, UR-SQF, and UR-SQP have been granted permission to operate within U.S. airspace. The permits apply to all the aircraft specified in the airline’s application.
“An important goal for our brand’s international development has been achieved,” said general director of SkyUp Airlines, Dmytro Seroukhov.
“Also, on behalf of the company, I express my sincere gratitude to the competent state structures of the United States for their trust and the opportunity to work in the United States.”
The airline plans to develop ACMI services and provide chartered flights in the U.S. market.
As part of the certification process, SkyUp Airlines received DOT approval (permit for commercial operations as an air carrier in the United States), TSA approval (compliance with aviation security requirements for air transport to/from U.S. territory), and FAA approval.
Previously, the Ukrainian government signed a contract with SkyUp Airlines to provide air travel services to top government officials.
SkyUp Airlines lost at least one of its planes in the Sudan coup earlier this year, with the aircraft remaining stranded in the airport of Khartoum.