Russian Aircraft Remain Grounded in Germany Since 2022

Several Russian-owned and operated aircraft have been stranded at German airports for over three years, unable to take off due to European Union sanctions imposed following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The German Transport Ministry confirmed to broadcaster WDR that the grounding began on February 28, 2022, just days after the conflict began, in compliance with EU regulations.

Among the grounded aircraft are three Antonov AN-124 cargo planes stationed at Leipzig/Halle Airport in eastern Germany. At Cologne/Bonn Airport, authorities have held a Boeing 737 operated by Russian cargo carrier Atran and a Bombardier Challenger 300 business jet belonging to Utair.

In Frankfurt/Hahn, a Boeing 747 from British cargo operator CargoLogicAir remains parked. The airline ceased operations in 2022 due to sanctions and subsequently declared bankruptcy.

Munich Airport previously held an Airbus A320 formerly leased to Aeroflot. The aircraft’s Irish-Chinese leasing company paid €470,000 in outstanding fees, allowing it to depart for Ostrava in the Czech Republic.

While these cases are confirmed, German authorities acknowledge that other aircraft are also affected, but ownership details remain under investigation. The sanctions prevent Russian-operated planes from entering EU airspace, leaving several high-value assets effectively immobilized.

The situation underscores the long-term economic and logistical consequences of the EU’s aviation sanctions, which have disrupted not only Russian airlines but also leasing companies and cargo operators linked to Russian operations. As the war in Ukraine continues, no resolution for these stranded aircraft appears imminent.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, yahoo.com