Aeroflot to Acquire Boeing 737s for Parts Amid Sanctions

Aeroflot, Russia’s largest airline, is negotiating the acquisition of five used Boeing 737-800BCF freighters from their insurers, associated with the Volga-Dnepr Group’s subsidiary, Atran Airlines. These aircraft are intended for cannibalization to source spare parts for maintaining its 737 fleet amidst challenging Western sanctions. With an average fleet age of 21.9 years, these aircraft are currently stored at Moscow’s airports and were previously registered in Bermuda but had their airworthiness certificates revoked following the imposition of sanctions due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Originally owned by the Irish leasing company AerCap, these aircraft had their leases terminated due to their age and value, resulting in ownership transferring to their insurers. Aeroflot aims to finalize the transfer of ownership and settle with the insurers outside the sanctions framework, given that the aircraft are already located in Russia and listed under a Russian airline entity.

This move is part of Aeroflot’s broader strategy to maintain its fleet operations amidst ongoing restrictions on acquiring parts for Western-built aircraft. The carrier has been forced to adopt unconventional methods over the past two years, including sourcing parts from other aircraft within its fleet. This has included making replicas of Airbus and Boeing parts and instructing Russian companies to produce essential components domestically.

These adaptations are crucial for Aeroflot as it maintains its domestic and select international routes while navigating the complex landscape of international sanctions. The airline’s proactive measures reflect its resilience and resourcefulness in ensuring continued operation and service amid geopolitical challenges.

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