Published: 11/21/1997

On 29 October, Valery Okulov and Alik Askarov the general directors of the Russian and Kirgiz flag-carriers, respectively - signed "Agreement on co-operation, mutual understanding and support". According to the document, Aeroflot-Russian International Airlines (ARIA) and Kirgizstan Aba Zholdoru agreed to open new lines between the countries, sell each other's tickets and co-operate on technical maintenance of their fleets. In addition, Aeroflot will train Kirgiz aviators, including pilots, technicians and stewards in its Moscow personnel training centre. The Russian company will also assist in marketing policy and commercial activities. In return, Kirgizstan gives Aeroflot some privileges in developing cargo and passenger traffic to the Manas airport of Bishkek free economic zone. The partners will try to improve connections between their flights, develop tourism and transit services. Moreover, Aeroflot agreed to help in organising transfer of Kirgiz passengers between Sheremetievo-1 and Sheremetievo-2 terminals in Moscow. It will also assist in servicing Kizgiz airplanes at Sheremetievo airport. Earlier this year Aeroflot resumed Il-62 flights from Moscow to Bishkek. From 24 February until 1 November, the carrier carried 8,608 passengers, reporting an average passenger-load factor of 80%. According to the Kirgiz carrier, it has a fleet of two Tu-154M, 11 Tu-154B2, six Tu-134A airliners, 24 Yak-40 commuters, one Il-76TD freighter and 12 Mi-8 helicopters. These make flights on seven routes to foreign countries, 14 within the CIS and 23 inside the republic.(AL1197.4) (VK)

Article ID: 87