Ukrainian carrier SkyUp Airlines has issued an appeal to continue to survive as Russian troops advance through Ukraine’s territory. The company announced on its Linkedin page that its entire fleet of aircraft was made available for leasing.
In the statement, SkyUp says its planes can be operated by airlines from other countries on a wet-lease basis. This type of leasing consists of the temporary lease of aircraft including certified crew, maintenance and insurance policies.
The Ukrainian company has 15 Boeing 737 NG jets with an average age of 12 years – there are two 737-700s, nine 737-800s and two 737-900ERs.
“By using our aircraft, you will help us continue our operational activities during the war and pay taxes to the state treasury, save 1,300 employees and support the affected Ukrainians as we will send every tenth dollar or euro to help the victims of the war,” says the official note of the Ukrainian airline.
The only restriction imposed by SkyUp on leasing its aircraft is that operators cannot fly to destinations in Russia and Belarus, a country that would be collaborating with the invasion of Ukraine.
“The best thing that can be done by those of us who defend our homeland without weapons is to continue to work hard. The highest priority task for business is to continue operations, because that is exactly what Ukraine needs now to economic stability, create additional resources for our armed Ukrainian forces, and support civilians affected by the fighting,” the company added.
Founded in 2016 and operating in the market since 2018, SkyUp Airlines operates low-cost domestic and international flights and also offers charter services. The company’s activities have been suspended since February 24, when Ukrainian airspace was closed to civilian traffic.
