The Civil Aviation Agency of Kyrgyzstan has officially revoked the operating license of Tez Jet airline following a serious technical failure at Manas International Airport. The decision comes after a comprehensive inspection revealed gross violations of aviation legislation that directly compromised flight safety standards. This regulatory action effectively grounds the carrier's fleet, impacting regional connectivity within the Central Asian nation.
Details of the Bishkek-Osh Flight Incident
The investigation was triggered by an emergency involving an MD-83 aircraft on July 7, 2026. While attempting to take off from Bishkek for a scheduled domestic flight to Osh, the aircraft suffered a structural failure of its rear landing gear. The mechanical collapse caused the plane to tilt dangerously onto its left wing during the high-speed taxi phase.
At the time of the accident, the following were on board:
- 181 passengers in total
- 18 children among the travelers
- Flight crew and cabin staff
Despite the severity of the gear collapse, emergency services confirmed that no injuries were reported among the passengers or crew members.
Safety Violations and Regulatory Consequences
Following the landing gear failure, aviation authorities conducted an immediate audit of Tez Jet’s maintenance protocols and operational standards. The inspectors identified systematic failures in adhering to the legal requirements of Kyrgyzstan's aviation code. These findings suggest that the July 7 incident was not an isolated equipment failure but a symptom of broader oversight issues within the airline's technical department.
Gross violations of aviation legislation requirements were discovered, affecting flight safety and necessitating the immediate revocation of the carrier's operational permit.
The suspension of Tez Jet is expected to lead to significant adjustments in the domestic travel market, as the Bishkek-Osh route is one of the busiest corridors in the region. Passengers who previously booked tickets with the airline are advised to contact the company for refunds or seek alternative transport through other local carriers operating out of Manas International Airport.
In conclusion, the revocation of Tez Jet’s license underscores a tightening of safety regulations within the Kyrgyz aviation sector. While the lack of casualties in the MD-83 incident is fortunate, the government’s decisive action reflects a zero-tolerance policy toward safety breaches. Travelers in the region should monitor official announcements for updates on flight schedules and the potential redistribution of domestic routes to other certified operators.