BRUSSELS, April 2. /TASS/. Restrictions for flights of Turkey-based Southwind Airlines to the EU are based on the interpretation of the current regime of sanctions in the light of information received from Finland about the alleged work of this company in interests of Russia, a source in EU institutions told TASS.
"This decision was made at the level of aviation authorities of the European Union member-countries on the basis of information furnished [by Finland] concerning airline’s operation in interests of Russia, including the use of Russian personnel and aircraft. This decision is based on the interpretation of EU Council Regulation 833/2014 and subsequent supplements thereto. The regulation on the ban on operations of Russian companies in the EU is descriptive and does not require introduction of restrictions against each and every individual company," the source said.
The press service of the European Commission confirmed to TASS information contained in the Official Journal of the EU that Southwind Airlines is not included directly into the black list against Russia.
Southwind Airlines denied allegations about ties with Russia earlier. The air carrier also stated its intention to challenge the ban on flights in the European area in European courts.