The results of the analysis of the interannual variability of the Barents Sea ice area, including trends in the area of sea ice distribution for the period 1979-2018 based on remote sensing data, are presented. The analysis of trends is based on a dimensionless trend index, which allows comparing different areas of sea ice distribution. Estimates of the Barents Sea ice-free regime in January and August are presented on the basis of extrapolation of trends for the period 1979-2018. The ice-free regime of the Barents Sea in January is expected in 2055, in August - 2026.