Rossiya Resolves Claim with GA Telesis Over Two A319s Amid Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Russian insurer NSK has reached a settlement with GA Telesis regarding the loss of two Airbus A319 narrowbody aircraft and their engines, which were leased to Rossiya when Russia invaded Ukraine. The stranded aircraft, re-registered in Russia, prompted a claim by GA Telesis, a lessor and aviation solutions provider.

The settlement was confirmed in a statement by GA Telesis on December 21, 2023. While the exact amount was not disclosed, the statement mentioned the effective release of claims against NSK, Aeroflot, Rossiya, and their international reinsurers. The insurance settlement proceeds from NSK were approved by the United States Treasury and aligned with applicable sanctions regimes.

The two A319-100 aircraft in question, registered as VQ-BCO (msn 3942) and VQ-BCP (msn 3998), were initially placed at Rossiya by GA Telesis subsidiary Gain Aircraft Ireland. Following the outbreak of hostilities and sanctions against Russia in 2022, the local authorities re-registered both aircraft as RA-73186 and RA-73216, respectively. Notably, both aircraft continue to operate actively for Rossiya, according to flight tracking sites.

The settlement with GA Telesis is part of a series of late 2023 agreements between NSK and aircraft lessors. The insurer has also concluded settlements with AerCap and Air Lease Corporation, closing the chapter on various claims, including a USD572 million claim from AerCap.

As the aviation industry navigates complex geopolitical challenges, settlements such as these demonstrate efforts to address financial implications and legal complexities arising from conflicts and sanctions. Stay tuned for further updates on developments in the aviation industry amid evolving global situations.