Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- The Agency for Strategic Reforms of Uzbekistan has developed a number of proposals for the development of small aviation, based on foreign experience and its impact on economic growth. 

The agency notes that small aviation covers light aircraft with a maximum take-off weight of 495 to 8,600 kilograms and no more than 19 passengers, and also includes hang gliders, gliders and hot air balloons. This industry is actively used in tourism, agriculture, sports, logistics, environmental monitoring, aerial photography and video filming, geological exploration and other purposes.

Analysis of foreign experience

In the United States, small aviation is a significant industry, employing 500 thousand people, of whom about 300 thousand have private pilot certificates. There are 300 thousand aircraft and 13,514 airports and airfields in the country. More than 20 thousand small aircraft are used by farmers for agricultural needs. In 2018, the Law “On Small Aviation” was adopted, which significantly simplified procedures for owners of small aircraft and helicopters. This law created advisory and regulatory bodies, improving the certification and safety system. The market for small aviation services is estimated at US$50 billion a year, generating US$4 billion in taxes annually.

There are 3,359 small aircraft and 2 thousand pilots registered in Russia. The country has 226 airports and 5 heliports. A US$7.6 billion Small and Regional Aviation Development Program is being developed, aimed at expanding the domestic airline network, creating regional airlines and reducing the financial burden on airlines and airports.

There are more than 60 small aviation organizations operating in Kazakhstan with a fleet of more than 300 aircraft, employing over 200 aviation specialists. There are 24 airports and 5 heliports in the country. The Kazakhstan Association of Small Aviation regulates the activities of small aviation, including the training of pilots and technicians, as well as the inspection and repair of aircraft. In Central Asia, air routes mainly connect capitals and major cities.

The situation in Uzbekistan

There are 18 airports in Uzbekistan. However, in the field of small aviation there is no comprehensive regulation of issues related to registration, certification, operations and maintenance. There is also no system for training and advanced training of private pilots and aviation personnel.

Proposals for the development of small aviation in Uzbekistan until 2025

For the development of small aviation in Uzbekistan until 2025, it is proposed to carefully study foreign experience. This includes analysis of the impact of small aviation on economic growth in countries such as the United States, Russia, Kazakhstan and others. The experiences of these countries can provide valuable lessons and best practices that will help accelerate the development of the sector in Uzbekistan.

It is necessary to review the current Air Code and develop new regulations to create an effective regulatory framework in the field of small aviation. This will establish clear rules and procedures to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the industry.

Infrastructure development is also a key aspect. It is important to build new airfields and heliports, which will significantly improve transport accessibility and connect remote regions of the country with the main economic centers.

The development of alternative types of aircraft such as hang gliders, gliders and hot air balloons should be supported. These types of aviation can find wide application in tourism, sports and other areas.

The formation of a specialist training system is another important task. Educational programs must be created to train pilots and maintenance personnel to ensure the availability of qualified personnel for the growing small aviation industry.

Government support also plays a significant role in the development of small aviation. Introducing measures to reduce the tax burden and providing budgetary support will help small aviation enterprises become more competitive and sustainable.

To effectively manage small aviation, it is necessary to establish a differentiated system for registration and certification of aircraft, as well as clearly regulate operational activities. This will improve the level of safety and reliability in the industry.

Finally, it is necessary to introduce a system of effective government control in the field of small aviation. This will ensure compliance with all norms and standards, and also maintain a high level of safety and quality of services.

The effective development of small aviation in Uzbekistan will become an important factor in economic growth and livelihoods in remote regions of the country, helping to improve transport infrastructure and create new jobs.