Russian government steps in to assist VIM-Avia passengers

Russian authorities are prioritising measures to transport of VIM-Avia passengers in the wake of the financial crisis engulfing the leisure operator. The Russian ministry of transport says the airline has a "lack of funds" to meet obligations to passengers. But it has taken immediate decisions to allow the operator to use its own fleet, or the aircraft of other carriers, to ensure that customers with immediate transport needs are conveyed. VIM-Avia's operations have been disrupted by the suspension of airport services to the troubled carrier. The ministry says it is drawing up, over the next two days, a schedule of airlines willing to provide capacity for the carrier's network.<br/>