Dmitry Yadrov, head of Russia’s civil aviation regulator Rosaviatsiya, has confirmed that S7 Airlines (S7, Novosibirsk) is encountering difficulties maintaining its fleet of A320neo and A321neo aircraft due to Western sanctions affecting the upkeep of their Pratt & Whitney PW1000G engines. Concurrently, S7 has opposed a Kremlin initiative to renovate airports, citing potential financial strains on airlines.
Yadrov highlighted to TASS on July 1 the impact of the engine issues on Russia’s projected passenger traffic, which is anticipated to decline by 7% this year to 98.1 million. He emphasized the critical role these narrowbody aircraft play in passenger transport, despite operational challenges associated with their engines.
Reports from last October indicated that S7 Airlines adjusted its winter schedule by 10-15% due to grounded Airbus aircraft. Sources from Russia’s Ministry of Transport noted limitations in engine repairs by S7 Technics and Iranian facilities, exacerbating the situation.
According to ch-aviation, S7 Airlines operates thirty-one A320-200Ns (with fifteen currently grounded), four A321-200Ns, and four A321-200NX, all utilizing Pratt & Whitney engines.
In other developments, S7 Airlines has voiced objections to a plan to fund airport infrastructure through increased airline fees, fearing it could escalate operational costs and potentially raise ticket prices for passengers. Aeroflot (SU, Moscow Sheremetyevo) echoed concerns about the financial burden ultimately falling on travelers.
Rosaviatsiya outlined plans for the Air Transport Infrastructure Fund, initiated by President Vladimir Putin, aimed at airport reconstruction, with funds expected to start accumulating in August through higher air navigation fees. S7 Airlines expressed reservations, citing significant cost escalations at airports where new terminal projects have been implemented since 2022.
The ongoing challenges have also led S7 Airlines to pursue legal action against Tsifra Broker, seeking RUB1 billion (USD11.16 million) for alleged financial losses related to investment dealings. The case underscores broader financial pressures facing the airline amid operational and economic uncertainties.
