Despite closed skies and war, Ukrainian aircraft manufacturing remains one of the largest donors to the state budget: every hryvnia of tax benefits returns to the state in 2. 5–3 times the amount. The industry not only generates billions in revenue but also maintains tens of thousands of jobs and critical defense technologies, which is why the state needs to restore tax preferences for the industry.
Laws establishing the legal regime of Defence City to support defense industry enterprises have been sent to President Zelenskyy for signature. Residents will receive tax benefits and simplified customs procedures, taking into account the position of the aviation industry.
Ukrainian civil aviation maintains competitiveness despite the war, implementing innovations and modernizing its fleet. Antonov Airlines received international recognition, and "Aviakompania Konstanta" strengthened its positions in the global market, displacing Russians.
The Verkhovna Rada is preparing to consider draft laws on Defence City.
The Ukrainian aviation industry retains potential and personnel despite the war, but requires state support. The inclusion of aircraft manufacturing enterprises in Defence City is key for further development.
Ukrainian aviation today is fighting not only in the air but also for its existence as an industry.
World experience shows that without state support, the aviation industry cannot function effectively, and investments in it create thousands of jobs.
Mykhailo Pinkevych, a veteran of the Russian-Ukrainian war and advisor to "Konstanta Airlines", emphasizes the strategic importance of Ukrainian aviation for the country's image and its development.
Ukrainian aircraft manufacturing, which services Western aircraft and modernizes military aircraft, lost state support from January 1, 2025. The Defence City initiative could be a lifeline, but it needs changes to include aircraft manufacturing enterprises and lower the income threshold from defense contracts.
Since January 2025, state benefits for aircraft manufacturing enterprises have ceased to operate in Ukraine. The aviation industry risks remaining outside the Defence City initiative, which could lead to a loss of potential.