newstodate.aero

Feb 05, 2021 (newstodate): It is essential for Norway's seafood exporters to get better access to the Asian markets through Russia's Sibir air lanes.
   Over the last 20 or more years, several attempts have been made to put pressure on negotiations for improved air services agreements - but so far without tangible results.
   A fresh attempt is now made by the General Manager of Sjomatbedriftene, Robert Eriksson, who has urged the Norwegian minister of Transportation to work actively for a better air services agreement between Norway and Russia to secure access for all-cargo flights from Northern Norway to Asia though the Sibir air lanes.
   -So far, we have received no answer to our letter, but we have met with a very positive response from many sides, says Mr Eriksson
   -We must however stand firm on this issue, and the minister has to eventually come up with a strategy to improve today's situation where we have to route much of the seafood destined for Asia via Central Europe. Norway is close to the great circle routing to Asia using the Sibir air lanes which could save much time and costs, as well as prolonging the shelf life of the products.  
   -Also granted this access, airlines could include a stop at a Norwegian airport to load Norwegian seafood with limited extra operational costs on eastbound flights to Asia.
   -We recognize that air services agreements are by nature political issues, and a positive change to the existing situation should be beneficial to Russia as well, maybe even creating new business opportunities for Russian airlines and airports along the route.
   -As Norway negotiates air service agreement jointly with the other Scandinavian countries, a concord should be reached that is of value to Sweden and Denmark, too, and we are keenly aware that the interests of SAS play a role as well.
   -Anyhow, a solution should be found to open up for more traffic rights on the Sibir routes, maybe distinguishing between passenger and all-cargo operations, and we look forward to a dialogue with all parties - first of all with the Norwegian minister in charge, says Mr Eriksson.