Historic International Flight Departs from Chechnya
The first international flight in fifteen years has departed from Chechnya on a religious pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia in a historic moment for the Russian republic.
The departing plane was a Boeing 757 which had 200 pilgrims on board travelling on the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, according to the St Petersburg Times.
At the airport to see off the flight was Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov who has the backing of the Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. Mr Kadyrov has successfully rebuilt the city while bringing an end to the troubles there.
In an official statement it was announced that 2,000 pilgrims would be flown to Saudi Arabia via a total of seven aircraft and that this occasion would mark the beginning of regular international flights from Grozny Airport.
Mr Kadyrov said: “Today's event is a big success for our people,” as he commended those who had endured a difficult journey reaching the airport for their flight. The Chechen leader added that he had hopes for a boost to Chechnya’s economy due to the resumption of international flights.
Moscow’s decision earlier this month to abolish all restrictions on international flights from Grozny follows its announcement in April to end anti-terrorist operations in Chechnya due to the new stability in the region. Domestic flights there were resumed in 2007.
In the 1990s there were major clashes between Russian forces and Chechen separatists. Today's flight is a progressive step away from those dark days.
This is clearly a turning point for economic growth in Chechnya and heralds the beginnings of new tourist activity in the country.
Travel Industry news posted by Marilyn on 17 November 2009
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