Airline regulations encompass a wide range of legal norms governing the commercial, operational, and administrative activities of air carriers in Georgia. The aviation business is one of the most regulated sectors, where almost every step, from establishing a company to selling a ticket, is subject to specific rules. This service helps both local and international airlines navigate complex bureaucratic mazes, obtain necessary licenses, protect consumer rights, and ensure compliance with competition laws. Qualified legal support is essential for the effective functioning of an airline to avoid financial penalties, license suspension, and reputational damage.
What does Airline Regulations service cover?
The service covers all stages of an airline's lifecycle:
- Air Operator Certificate (AOC): Full legal management of the process to obtain an operator's certificate, which is the most critical stage of creating an airline.
- Flight Permits and Designations: Obtaining permits for scheduled and charter flights and securing designation on international routes.
- Passenger Regulations: Protecting passenger rights, ticket refund policies, compensation for flight delays or cancellations, and disputes related to lost luggage.
- Commercial Agreements: Drafting Code-sharing, Interline, and agency agreements.
- Tariff Regulation: Ensuring tariff policies comply with anti-monopoly legislation.
Common Real-World Scenarios
A typical example is a foreign low-cost airline entering Georgia, needing to open a local representation and obtain flight permits for seasonal flights. A second scenario involves a Georgian airline adding a new destination to Europe and needing to undergo "Third Country Operator" (TCO) authorization procedures with EASA, where local lawyers provide assistance. Collective passenger complaints due to mass flight cancellations are also common, where the airline needs defense and negotiation on compensations. Another situation is airline reorganization or merger, requiring regulator consent and license re-registration.
Georgian Legal Framework
The field is regulated by the Air Code of Georgia and the Law of Georgia on Licenses and Permits. Airline certification rules are outlined in the normative acts of the Civil Aviation Agency. Regarding passenger rights, norms analogous to European regulations (EC 261/2004) apply in Georgia, obliging airlines to pay compensation. Also important is the Law on Competition, which prohibits the abuse of a dominant position in the aviation market. International flights are regulated by bilateral Air Services Agreements (ASA) between Georgia and partner countries.
Service Process Step-by-Step
The process begins with analyzing the client's business model. If it is a new airline, a certification roadmap is drawn up. Lawyers prepare founding documents, the legal part of operational manuals, and justification of financial sustainability. Then, communication with the Civil Aviation Agency takes place, followed by application submission. For existing airlines, the process includes regular consultations ("retainer"), contract revision, and representation in administrative proceedings.
Why use Legal.ge?
Managing an airline is like navigating a labyrinth of regulations. On Legal.ge, you will find lawyers with practical experience working with airlines. They know not only the law but also the unwritten rules of the industry and market conditions. Our platform will help you find a partner who ensures the smooth and lawful functioning of your aviation business in Georgia.
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