Navigating the Complexities of Airline Operations: A Comprehensive Guide

Navigating the Complexities of Airline Operations: A Comprehensive Guide

As an outsider, the process of an airline operating to a country may seem like a simple task. However, there is a rather complicated web of agreements and regulations behind this seemingly straightforward event. In this blog post, we will delve into the intricate world of Bilateral Air Services Agreements and Bilateral Air Services Negotiations, shedding light on the critical aspects that govern international air travel.

Bilateral Air Services Agreement: The Foundation of Air Travel

A Bilateral Air Services Agreement is a contract made between two countries, outlining the specific guidelines and procedures for air service operations between them. This agreement covers essential details such as the number of flights that can be operated per week, the types of aircraft allowed, the designated airports, and the routes that can be flown before and after those airports. Additionally, the agreement may include information about passenger and cargo transportation, as well as other relevant logistics.

Currently, Sri Lanka has established such agreements with approximately 80 countries, and the negotiations continue with others.

The Airline's Journey: Seeking Approval

Now, let's consider the case where an airline company from one country wants to start operations in another. The process begins with the airline making a written request to the government agency (e.g., Ministry, Air Service Authority, or Department) responsible for civil aviation in the other country. The agency then reviews the request and compares it with the existing aviation agreement between the two nations.

If there is an established agreement, the agency checks whether the requesting airline has been designated by the country that owns the airline to operate in their country. If not, the two countries will engage in discussions to reach an agreement on the designation. Once the approval is obtained, the airline can proceed with its operations, subject to the restrictions outlined in the aviation service agreement.

In the absence of an existing aviation agreement, the two countries' institutions will collaborate to provide temporary approval based on the specific needs. However, the ultimate goal is to establish a formal airline agreement.

Licensing and Scheduling: The Next Steps

After securing the initial approval, the airline must obtain the necessary licenses for its operations. This process involves the relevant authorities thoroughly reviewing the airline's qualifications and ensuring they meet the requirements for the proposed operations. Any deficiencies identified must be addressed before the licenses can be issued.

 
With the licenses in place, the airline's operational schedule must be approved. This approval is granted based on the details outlined in the relevant aviation agreement, such as the number of flights, the types of aircraft, and the intermediate and subsequent operating airports.

Ongoing Compliance and Renewal

The journey does not end here. The airline must maintain compliance with the issued licenses and schedule approvals. These documents require periodic renewal, ensuring that the airline's operations continue to meet the necessary standards and regulations.

Conclusion

The process of an airplane arriving in a country is far more intricate than it may seem on the surface. The Bilateral Air Services Agreement and Bilateral Air Services Negotiations lay the foundation for international air travel, with each step meticulously regulated to ensure the safety, efficiency, and fairness of the aviation industry. By understanding these complexities, we can appreciate the vast network of agreements and approvals that enable the seamless movement of aircraft and passengers across borders.