Russia’s aviation industry defies sanctions to remain airborne

Russia’s aviation industry has defied predictions it would slowly grind to a halt after western sanctions barred access to vital spare parts and maintenance expertise. Domestic air travel has rebounded close to levels last seen before the Covid-19 pandemic, triggering concerns among western executives that safety may eventually be put at risk. Since Russia lifted all pandemic-related travel restrictions in the summer, the number of domestic flights has surged and was up 4 per cent on 2019 levels in October this year, according to data from IBA, the aviation consultancy. International travel remains far below 2019 levels as most western countries banned Russian airlines from their airspace following its invasion of Ukraine. Travel has continued to certain countries, such as China, Turkey and former Soviet Union states. The domestic rebound, however, has triggered fears over the long-term safety of the fleet. Airbus and Boeing in March suspended the supply of spare parts and services and removed their regular maintenance support. Engine makers, including Rolls-Royce, also stopped support. Before the start of the war, the two aerospace groups accounted for 70% of Russia’s commercial fleet of roughly 880 aircraft, according to data from consultancy Cirium.<br/>