BISHKEK—The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has committed approximately $13.8 million to enhance the air traffic systems at Manas and Issyk-Kul airports in Kyrgyzstan, aiming to boost the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations in the region.

According to Trend News Agency, the Kyrgyz Ministry of Finance announced that JICA’s local office and the Japanese Embassy have finalized exchange notes and a grant agreement for the “Air Traffic Management Equipment Enhancement Project.” This funding, totaling 2.153 billion Japanese yen, will facilitate crucial updates, including the renovation of the control tower at Osh airport and the modernization of systems at Manas and Issyk-Kul airports.

“The air traffic control and management equipment has significantly deteriorated over the past 50 years, and there is an urgent need for system upgrades,” explained the Ministry of Finance. The planned enhancements are expected to improve the operational safety and capacity of the airports, which are vital for maintaining transportation infrastructure and regional connectivity.

This project underscores the strategic importance of Kyrgyzstan’s airports in Central Asia and represents a significant international collaboration to advance the aviation sector’s efficiency and safety standards.