ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF THE INTEGRATION OF UKRAINIAN CARGO AIRLINES INTO THE EUROPEAN AVIATION AREA

Abstract

The article examines the economic implications of the integration of Ukrainian cargo airlines into the European aviation area in the context of Ukraine's European integration, implementation of the Common Aviation Area Agreement, and the post-war recovery of the national aviation industry. It is substantiated that the harmonization of Ukrainian aviation legislation with European Union regulations creates the institutional prerequisites for enhancing the competitiveness of domestic cargo airlines, expanding access to the European air transport market, attracting foreign investment, and integrating into international logistics networks.The study proposes an author's model for assessing the economic implications of integration, which combines institutional, economic, operational-logistical, and strategic components. The key institutional transformations, expected economic effects, and strategic directions for improving the efficiency of the integration process are systematized. Particular attention is paid to the influence of regulatory harmonization, infrastructure modernization, digital transformation, international cooperation, and state support for the post-war recovery of the aviation sector.The study also analyzes current trends in the global and European air cargo market based on the statistical data of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and Eurostat for 2022–2025. The findings indicate a steady recovery of global air cargo transportation after the crisis period and confirm favorable external conditions for the future integration of Ukrainian cargo airlines into the European aviation market.It is concluded that the successful integration of Ukrainian cargo airlines into the European aviation area will contribute to strengthening their competitiveness, increasing operational efficiency, expanding participation in international logistics chains, and enhancing the export potential of Ukraine's transport services. The proposed approaches may be used in developing state transport policy, strategies for the development of cargo airlines, and programs for the post-war recovery of the national aviation industry.