SkyUp Airlines, together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, other state institutions, and with the communication support of international partners, has evacuated all 36 employees from Sudan. The status of the aircraft remaining at Khartoum airport is currently unknown, but this situation does not affect the airline's operational activities. SkyUp Airlines continues to operate flights under all current contracts.
How and where were employees evacuated?
All employees were taken to the territory of Egypt thanks to the joint efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, the Honorary Consulate of Ukraine in Sudan, the Embassy of Ukraine in Egypt, and other foreign diplomatic missions of Ukraine. It was a complex multistage operation under the supervision of the airline's crisis center and representatives of state institutions. During all time, since the beginning of hostilities in Sudan on April 15, 2023, representatives of the airline have been in contact with colleagues, helping provide food, water, and other necessary things. All employees are currently resting and will return home soon.
The company is sincerely grateful to colleagues for keeping calm, showing bravery, endurance, courage, and managing to cope with a stressful situation. We also express our sincere gratitude to all representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine for their extraordinary professionalism and patience.
What is the situation with the planes at Khartoum airport?
While hostilities continue, we cannot conduct the necessary examination and provide conclusions. Regarding this situation, we act under the protocols accepted in the aviation industry, partnership agreements, and within the framework of national legislation and international law. We cooperate with our partners: lessors, insurance companies, and aviation authorities. As soon as we have the opportunity to conduct an inspection and provide an assessment of the condition of the aircraft, we will make it public.
Will the company continue to work with Sun Air?
As of today, the flight program for Sun Air is suspended.
In matters related to the execution of flights to one or another country, SkyUp Airlines is guided by the recommendations of the State Aviation Administration of Ukraine, EASA and NOTAM data, and specialized resources on aviation security. At the time of the agreement with Sun Air, there were no restrictions on this matter.
How does the situation in Sudan affect the company's activities?
The company continues all operational activities. We keep our team and continue to fulfill our obligations under ACMI contracts and at the request of tour operators, as well as providing special flights. The airline's fleet currently consists of 10 Boeing 737 aircraft. The company makes every effort to ensure that our entire fleet is in use.