ArmInfo. Taking into account Kapan's geographical location, terrain and distance from Yerevan, the operations of Syunik Airport have significantly improved communication between the regional center and the capital. This enhanced communication is a serious incentive for economic and tourism development, as stated by Karen Vardanyan, director of the airport, in a conversation with journalists.
He noted that flight safety is being appropriately addressed. During the early stage of the airport reconstruction, there were occasional interruptions in work due to shelling from Azerbaijani positions, but there have been no incidents recorded recently.
Karen Vardanyan noted that there is a high demand for flight, typically resulting in an occupancy rate of about 90%. "Over the past month, many people have not had time to buy tickets, as they sell out quite quickly. The issue of attracting additional aircraft is not currently discussed, as it depends on many factors, primarily financial. The Kapan-Yerevan flight is subsidized by the Zangezur Copper and Molybdenum Combine. Therefore, as a purely business project, it may not be very profitable. However, as a social program, it is quite appropriate and in demand. We are an open institution and are ready to cooperate with all interested parties," the airport director said.
He assured that the airport has great development potential and can even service international flights in the future. Today, there is already a noticeable increase in foreign tourists in the passenger flow. "When we first started operating flights, the majority of the passengers were our partners - ZCMC employees. Initially, there were some concerns about safety, but I, my family members, and friends demonstrated by personal example that there are no issues, and we can safely operate flights," the airport director emphasized.
