The Russia-based airline Red Wings is experiencing serious operational disruptions due to widespread technical malfunctions within its fleet. With a large portion of its long-haul aircraft grounded, thousands of Russian tourists have been left stranded abroad.
Red Wings Flights Cancelled One After Another
According to Russian media, two of the three long-haul aircraft in the Red Wings fleet have been taken out of service due to technical issues. These malfunctions led to the cancellation of flights from Nha Trang, Vietnam to Moscow that were scheduled for 26 and 27 October.
Tourists waiting abroad complained about being unable to return to work and having to extend their holidays at their own expense.
Company: “We Are Covering Passengers’ Accommodation Costs”
In a statement by Red Wings, the airline said it is covering hotel accommodation costs for affected passengers and has rearranged its flight schedule. However, it has been reported that resolving the technical problems within the fleet will take time.
Deepening Crisis in Russian Aviation
The latest incident is seen as another indicator of the systemic crisis facing Russia’s civil aviation sector. Following the war in Ukraine, extensive Western sanctions have severely restricted Russia’s access to aircraft parts, maintenance services, and insurance systems.
This situation has increasingly threatened the safety of Russia’s civilian fleet, which largely consists of Boeing and Airbus aircraft. Rostec CEO Sergey Chemezov previously stated that sanctions would render at least 200 Boeing and Airbus planes inoperable by 2030.
Parallel Imports and ICAO Appeal
According to customs records obtained by Reuters, in 2024 Russia imported at least $300,000 worth of aircraft parts through intermediary firms based in Turkey, China, Kyrgyzstan, and the United Arab Emirates. These parts reportedly included components manufactured by France’s Safran, America’s Honeywell, and Britain’s Rolls-Royce.
Russia has developed a parallel import system that allows the procurement of spare parts from third parties without the manufacturers’ approval. However, experts warn that this method increases safety risks.
As reported by OBOZ.UA, the Moscow government has applied to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), requesting the easing of sanctions due to difficulties in aircraft maintenance and spare part supply. Western countries, however, continue to reject these requests, viewing them as part of Russia’s responsibility for the war in Ukraine.
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