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.
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