Annotation. This paper examines the challenge of ensuring the sustainable development of regional aviation in Russia in the current context. It analyzes the strategic role of air transport in providing accessibility to hard-to-reach regions of the country. An analysis of the current state of regional aviation reveals systemic problems and the ineffectiveness of government subsidies, demonstrating funding growth outpacing passenger traffic. The paper proposes solutions, including the creation of a multi-tiered airfield protection system, the development of a regulatory framework for the use of counter-UAV systems, the optimization of government subsidy mechanisms, and the accelerated development of the airfield network.
Key words. Air transport, airfield infrastructure, regional aviation, air transport operation, transport accessibility, regularity of air travel, safety of the aviation industry.