Quick Read
– Armenia’s aviation sector aims to exit EU blacklist.
– EU audit finds no immediate safety threats.
– Ongoing reforms support positive changes in aviation.
– Armenian officials present progress in Brussels meeting.
– Technical issues remain before final approval.
Armenia’s aviation industry is making strides to emerge from the European Union’s notorious blacklist, a designation that has hampered its commercial flight operations since 2020. The EU’s recent audit, conducted in the autumn of 2025, revealed that Armenian airlines do not pose immediate flight safety threats, a significant step towards regaining full operational rights within EU airspace.
Mikhran Khachatryan, the head of Armenia’s Civil Aviation Committee, expressed optimism regarding the ongoing efforts to lift the restrictions. Following a positive assessment from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Armenia reached out to the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE) to expedite the process of removal from the blacklist.
Since being added to the EU’s flight safety list in 2020, Armenian airlines have faced severe limitations on their ability to conduct commercial flights in European airspace. However, the past few years have seen substantial reforms and international cooperation that have fostered a more favorable environment. In December 2024, following meetings with DG MOVE, Armenia submitted a corrective action plan, which laid the groundwork for a comprehensive evaluation visit in September 2025.
The outcomes of this evaluation, along with the corrective actions presented by Armenia’s Civil Aviation Committee, were key discussion points during the EU Flight Safety Committee meeting held in Brussels on November 19-20, 2025. During this session, Armenian representatives showcased the progress made since 2020, particularly in addressing previously identified deficiencies and implementing necessary reforms.
Despite the encouraging assessments, EU authorities continue to emphasize the need to address specific technical requirements before the process can be finalized. Khachatryan remains confident that Armenia’s aviation sector meets international standards, framing the remaining issues as technicalities that will soon be resolved.
As Armenia works diligently to exit the EU blacklist, the journey reflects a broader narrative of resilience and reform in the face of adversity. The commitment to enhancing aviation safety not only serves to benefit the airlines but also promises to open new avenues for tourism and economic growth, fostering a stronger connection between Armenia and the European market.
In conclusion, the ongoing efforts of Armenia’s aviation sector to lift the EU’s restrictions highlight a significant chapter in the country’s pursuit of international aviation standards. The combination of positive evaluations and the proactive approach from Armenian officials illustrates a determined effort to rebuild trust and ensure safety in the skies.