AIRLINE PRIVATISATION IN EASTERN-EUROPE AND EX-USSR

The paper aims to identify characteristics of airline privatisation in Eastern Europe and the ex-USSR. Although the main reasons for privati sation are similar to those in other parts of the world, the collapse of the independent air transportation system in the ex-communist regio n has produced a number of particular features in regard to their flee t, management, finance and partnership with foreign carriers. A not ef fect cf privatisation, associated with the purchase of new aircraft, i s a debt burden that prompts the airlines tc expand into more lucrativ e international markets. These trends are worthy of close scrutiny eve n though it is unclear whether Eastern European and ex-USSR airlines u ndergoing privatisation can transform themselves into organisations fi t to survive.