Georgian Airways obtained permission from the Russian Transport Ministry to carry out direct charter flights to Moscow starting from May 24, a spokesperson of the Georgian air carrier said on Tuesday.

Nino Giorgobiani said that the permission covers period till July 1, but added that the Georgian air carrier hoped the permission would be further extended till November 1.

“We expect to conduct three or four flights per week, depending on demand,” she said.

But the Russian Transport Ministry said that it had approved the Georgian air carrier’s request “partially”, allowing it to carry out charter flights till June 9, Interfax news agency reported.

Russia cut regular direct air flights with Georgia in October, 2006, following spy row between the two countries. The flights were restored in late March, 2008, but were again suspended after the August war.

Three direct charter flights were conducted to Moscow by the Georgian Airways in January, 2009 and the most recent flights were conducted over Orthodox Easter holidays in April.