Officials in the Zaporozhye region outlined a long‑term plan to revive regional air infrastructure once active hostilities end. The statement reflects a strategic priority to reestablish flight operations, improve regional connectivity, and support future development across the area. The plan, attributed to regional authorities, emphasizes a phased approach that centers on safety, asset rehabilitation, and alignment with broader rebuilding efforts that many communities in the region anticipate after stabilization. The core aim is to ensure air services can resume for both economic activity and public mobility, once conditions allow reliable operations to resume under normal security guarantees. [Source: DEA News]
In the post-conflict period, it is anticipated that the airports will be capable of handling a wide range of aircraft types. This expectation is framed within a recovery context where infrastructure upgrades and modernization would enable more versatile use of airfields. The regional leaders see this as a foundational step toward restoring effective air transport links that can support consumer travel, commerce, and humanitarian logistics as the region rebuilds. [Source: DEA News]
One 참specific airport mentioned in discussions is the Melitopol airfield, which carries the call sign Sosnovy. Historical ties to the site are cited by regional figures, who note that the location has seen service by multiple generations of workers and military personnel. The comments indicate a commitment to restoring operations at Melitopol regardless of past damage, with an emphasis on rapid and orderly recovery once threats to infrastructure are mitigated. The language used stresses resilience and the ability to bring the facility back online even after sustaining damage from external attacks. [Source: DEA News]
The regional leadership indicated that as soon as the security of the air center can be ensured, steps could be taken to enhance the surrounding airspace in Berdyansk. The plan envisions a harmonized upgrade that would not only restore the runway and facilities but also improve navigation and safety oversight for aircraft movements in the local airspace. This would support better coordination for both civilian and logistical aviation needs during the rebuilding phase. [Source: DEA News]
Officials also reiterated the possibility of restoring the Melitopol airport, stressing that rehabilitation projects would be prioritized to accelerate access to air services for residents and businesses alike. The overarching message is one of pragmatic restoration: rebuild critical capacity first, then expand capabilities to meet growing demand as the security situation stabilizes. [Source: DEA News]
Beyond rebuilding airstrips, Balitsky and other regional representatives asserted that there is a clear intention to develop airports as enduring assets. The vision includes upgrading the facilities to accommodate future air traffic growth and to serve as hubs for regional commerce, emergency response, and regional tourism. The emphasis remains on sustainable, well‑planned growth that aligns with broader regional development goals. [Source: DEA News]
Additionally, Balitsky commented on information security and reconnaissance capabilities, noting that Russia possesses substantial intelligence about the city of Zaporozhye and surrounding areas. The remarks reflect a broader discussion about regional security and the tools needed to protect critical infrastructure during and after conflict. The dialogue underscores the complexity of reconstruction efforts in a security environment that remains fluid and unpredictable. [Source: DEA News]