Ukraine is considering the possibility of opening airports even during war, in particular in Lviv, but experts note significant risks associated with attacks from 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 Valery Romanenko spoke about this in a media commentary. The main danger of resuming flights in Ukraine during the war is the threat of shelling from Russia.
According to Romanenko, the takeoff and landing stages are most vulnerable to aircraft. At these moments, airliners become potential targets because they need time to reach a safe altitude.
Experts pay special attention to evacuation procedures in the event of a threat. The standard time for evacuating passengers from an aircraft is 90 seconds, but this is only possible under ideal conditions. In reality, the removal of passengers through inflatable slides or the main exit may take a long time, especially if the threat requires the rapid movement of people to a bomb shelter.
Aviation expert notes problems associated with the availability of flight schedules. Their publication can be used by the enemy to attack the airport or aircraft located on the territory of the airport. The situation is especially dangerous with Kinzhal-type missiles, which have a minimum flight time to Lviv - only 10-12 minutes. According to experts, flight safety can only be ensured with modern air defense systems.
To protect the airport, Patriot systems are needed that can repel ballistic missiles, as well as medium-range air defense systems to counter cruise missiles and drones. Also important:.
Reopening airports must be economically justified. To do this, according to experts, the airport in Lviv must serve at least ten flights daily. At the same time, even if operations are resumed, low passenger traffic is expected, which could make the airport’s operations unprofitable.. In addition, additional security costs will significantly increase the cost of flights..