Scott P. Arroyo 
EU considers sanctions against Belavia, others on the migration crisis
11.11.2021 – 08:07 UTC
The European Union is considering imposing new sanctions on Belavia (B2, Minsk National) and other carriers connecting Minsk National to destinations in the Middle East, including Turkish Airlines and flydubai, as Belarus steps up efforts to bringing migrants to the Polish border.
Three unnamed European Union diplomats have told Reuters news agency that a new round of sanctions could be imposed by the bloc early next week, possibly at a meeting of foreign ministers from the block on November 15. The sanctions may target several Belarusian officials and state-owned companies, including Belavia. Once the flag carrier is sanctioned, international lessors could be forced to withdraw their planes from Belarus. However, The Guardian reported that discussions were ongoing over whether the sanctions would affect existing leases or simply ban new ones.
In their most extreme form, the punitive measures could severely limit Belavia’s operations as it leases the bulk of its planes – 21 out of 30 – the majority from EU-based lessors, including six B737s from Ireland’s AerCap , a B737-300. ..
Air Arabia to establish JV in Armenia
14.07.2021 – 17:23 UTC
Air Arabia Group, the parent company of Air Arabia (G9, Sharjah), has signed an agreement with the Armenian National Interest Fund (ANIF), a public investment vehicle, to establish a new joint venture in Armenia which will become the carrier country flag.
“We see enormous potential for Armenia in building its aviation sector, which will add lasting value to the economy through job creation and the development of the travel and tourism sector. We thank ANIF and the Civil Aviation Department for their confidence and look forward to working hand in hand to develop the new airline, which will serve as a value-for-money air travel option for Armenians and visitors to the country,” said the group’s chief executive, Adel Abdullah Ali.
The name of the new carrier will be chosen from a list of proposals submitted by Armenian citizens until August 14, 2021.
The investors did not specify the exact shareholding structure of the planned joint venture or its proposed fleet or network. The airline will be based in Yerevan and will operate using a low-cost carrier company…
Editorial Comment: The article is updated with additional information regarding the launch schedule and shareholding structure. – 25.07.2021 – 18:35 UTC
