Russia delivers long-awaited aviation link: Flight from Moscow touches down in Soho, Abkhazia, ending 30-year hiatus
Behind the scenes, preparations were underway for a grand opening, a moment thirty years in the making. A historic day was approaching, one that would mark a significant milestone for Abkhazia and Russia alike. On May 1, 2025, the curtains would lift, revealing a transformation not seen since the previous direct flight from Moscow to Sukhumi in 1993.
This time, the small airline "UVT Aero" would be the chosen vessel, taking off from Moscow's "Vnukovo" and landing in Abkhazia's long-awaited Vladislav Ardzinba International Airport. The occasion was graced by none other than the Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration, Sergey Kiriyenko, a man with personal ties to the republic.
Politics aside, the excitement was palpable. As the plane touched down, anticipation seemed to unfurl in the air like a banner of celebration. Some passengers may have had an inkling of the grand welcome awaiting them, but for the luckier tickets to Sukhumi, the surprise was as stunning as it was unexpected.
Stepping off the plane, the newcomers were met by a throng of officials. Abkhazia's President, Badr Gunba, greeted them with a warm handshake, while the Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration of Russia, Kiriyenko, stood nearby. The Speaker of the local parliament was present, as were other dignitaries. A scene straight out of a fairy tale, save for the girls dancing in national costumes and the deafening crowd singing.
Outside, a grand feast was laid out, complete with a throng of waiters and an artillery of champagne. A quintessential Abkhazian celebration was underway, one that welcomed travelers with open arms to a new beginning.
The inaugural flight marked the resumption of direct air travel, a move that would be followed by a second flight on May 3 and weekly Saturday flights thereafter[4]. The reopening of the airport aligns with Russia’s broader strategy to deepen economic and infrastructure ties with Abkhazia, a region it has occupied since the 2008 war[3].
Georgia, however, sees the flights as illegal under international aviation law[1][3]. The Civil Aviation Agency has reiterated that flights to occupied territories violate the Chicago Convention, while Georgia’s government faces criticism for perceived inaction[3].
The strategic implications are far-reaching, with analysts viewing the airport’s reopening as part of Russia’s efforts to cement control over Abkhazia, including plans for a naval base in Ochamchire and energy-sector dominance[3][5]. The move has intensified debates about sovereignty, with Georgia framing it as a violation of its territorial integrity and Russia promoting it as a step toward regional connectivity[3][5].
As the tourist season unfolds, it remains to be seen what the future holds for this historic resumption of air travel. One thing is certain, though - the opening of Abkhazia's airport marks a significant step forward in a story that's far from over.
- The historic reopening of Abkhazia's airport, schedule for May 1, 2025, will be facilitated by the small airline "UVT Aero," flying from Moscow's Vnukovo Airport to the Vladislav Ardzinba International Airport in Abkhazia.
- On this triumphant day, senior Russian officials, including Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration, Sergey Kiriyenko, will mark the occasion, given his personal ties to the republic.
- The inaugural flight's landing will be met with festivities reflecting the vibrant Abkhazian lifestyle and culture, complete with traditional dances, singing, and a grand feast.
- This resumption of direct air travel could face international scrutiny due to Georgia's stance that the flights are in violation of international aviation law.
- The reopening of the airport aligns with Russia's broader objectives of reinforcing economic and infrastructure ties with Abkhazia, potentially leading to deeper political control over the region, as debated by analysts.
