SkyUp Launches European Flights from Chișinău Base
Ukrainian airline SkyUp has announced the launch of direct flights to several European destinations from a new base in Chișinău, Moldova. Set to commence in April 2025, these services aim to connect travelers to popular leisure spots across Europe using the airline’s fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft.
Despite Ukrainian airspace remaining closed since the Russian invasion in February 2022, SkyUp has continued operations by leveraging bases outside Ukraine and entering wet-lease agreements with other carriers. The decision to establish a base in Chișinău serves as a strategic move to cater to Ukrainian passengers who wish to travel amid the ongoing conflict. Chișinău International Airport (RMO) is conveniently located approximately 90 kilometers from the Moldovan-Ukrainian border and about 590 kilometers from Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital.
The new flight routes from Chișinău are already available for booking on SkyUp’s website. Destinations include Paris-Beauvais (twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays), Lisbon (once weekly on Fridays), Barcelona (starting with weekly flights on Wednesdays and increasing to three times a week), Alicante (twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays), Palma de Mallorca (twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays), Larnaca (three times a week), Thessaloniki (once weekly on Tuesdays), and Heraklion (three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, increasing to four times weekly).
In an official statement, SkyUp emphasized the importance of maintaining global connections for Ukrainians. “Although Ukrainian airspace remains closed to civilian aviation, Ukrainians have maintained their connection to the world. The demand for travel to visit relatives, maintain business relationships, diplomatic efforts, humanitarian activities, or journalistic responsibilities remains strong,” the statement read.
The airline chose Chișinău Airport due to its proximity to Ukraine, making it a practical hub for international routes. “We are committed to making air travel comfortable, modern, and affordable for everyone,” the statement added.
Dmytro Seroukhov, CEO of SkyUp Airlines, acknowledged the challenges faced since the conflict began. “As a Ukrainian carrier, it has not been easy since the onset of the full-scale invasion. To maintain our team, fleet, and operations, we had to quickly adapt to the global aviation market,” he commented.
Seroukhov expressed optimism about reconnecting with Ukrainian passengers. “Today, SkyUp Airlines is an international brand with Ukrainian roots. Our hearts are always warmed when Ukrainians at airports worldwide take photos of our aircraft and share them on social media with the words ‘Because it’s home.’ We are thrilled to launch regular flights again and reconnect with our Ukrainian passengers on board. We are committed to ensuring Ukrainian aviation remains resilient and making travel easier for Ukrainians around the world,” he concluded.
According to aviation data provider ch-aviation, SkyUp’s current fleet includes seven Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft—two 149-seat Boeing 737-700s and five 189-seat Boeing 737-800s. The airline also has seven Boeing 737 MAX aircraft on order from Boeing, comprising the MAX 7, MAX 8, and MAX 10 models.
SkyUp’s initiative not only symbolizes resilience in the face of adversity but also reinforces its commitment to serving the Ukrainian community. By establishing a new base in Chișinău, the airline is providing accessible travel options and maintaining vital connections between Ukraine and the rest of Europe. This expansion is a significant step in ensuring that Ukrainians continue to have opportunities for travel, business, and cultural exchange despite current challenges.
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