Western Sanctions Push Russia’s Presidential Fleet to Offer Planes to Commercial Carriers

According to sources from the Russian newspaper Kommersant, the Special Flight Squadron (SLO) serving the Presidential Administration of Russia, led by Vladimir Putin, plans to sell decommissioned Tu-214 passenger aircraft to commercial airlines.

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These aircraft are older models, over 20 years old, and require restoration, which will entail a high cost. However, given the Western sanctions that prevent Russian companies from accessing spare parts and new aircraft, this might not be a bad option.

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The airline Red Wings has been identified as one of those interested in acquiring these Tu-214. Other airlines have also stated they would consider this purchase «depending on the price», as long as they are guaranteed an extension of the aircraft’s lifespan, currently limited to 20 years.

Ilyushin Finance Co. has commented on the situation, suggesting that the sale of these aircraft might be of interest to Russian owners of foreign aircraft, who cannot operate outside of Russia due to the sanctions, as they risk being confiscated.

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Kommersant had previously reported on the possible sale of old Tu-204 and Tu-214 planes, which belonged to Ilyushin Finance Co/Rostec and were previously operated by Red Wings, Vladivostok-Avia, and Transaero. These aircraft were not flight-ready at the time and their age ranged between 12 and 16 years.

Later on, a Tu-214 manufactured in 2002 was put up for sale in January, with a starting price of 3.8 million dollars. Repairs were estimated at an additional 13 million dollars, but the sale did not go through. No further details were provided.

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