Russia Loses ICAO Bid to Ease Aviation Sanctions
Russia has failed in its attempt to gain international backing for the relaxation of Western aviation sanctions during the 42nd International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Assembly held in Montreal, which concluded on October 3. The sanctions, imposed after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, continue to isolate its aviation sector from key global supply chains.
In a formal submission to ICAO delegates, Moscow condemned the sanctions on aircraft parts, maintenance services, and overflights as “unlawful coercive measures.” Russian officials argued that the restrictions compromise flight safety and violate international aviation principles. However, the majority of ICAO member states rejected the proposal, maintaining that the measures are a legitimate response to Russia’s military aggression and violations of international law.
The failure to win support underscores the ongoing impact of sanctions on Russia’s commercial aviation industry. With direct access to Airbus and Boeing parts still blocked, Russian airlines have been forced to rely on secondary channels and parts cannibalization to maintain a fleet of more than 700 Western-built aircraft.
In a further setback, Russia also failed to regain its seat on ICAO’s governing council—a position it lost in 2022 amid growing global condemnation of its actions in Ukraine. The outcome highlights the continued diplomatic isolation of Russia in international aviation forums and signals that global regulators remain committed to upholding sanctions until meaningful geopolitical progress is achieved.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com