In a significant blow to Russia's aviation industry, 76 passenger planes have been lost due to sanctions imposed in response to the invasion of Ukraine, according to Russian Transport Minister Vitaly Savelyev. The unexpected decision to strip Russia of these aircraft has left the nation with a reduced fleet size.

Prior to the sanctions, Russia boasted a fleet of 1,302 planes, with 1,167 of them operating as passenger aircraft. However, owing to the actions taken by foreign countries, this number has significantly dwindled.

The 76 affected aircraft found themselves in various states at the time of the sanctions. Some were placed in technical storage, others were undergoing servicing abroad, and several were on the verge of operating flights. Unfortunately, the decision to revoke their certificates of airworthiness has left them stranded.

These lost planes were primarily registered abroad, mainly in Bermuda and Ireland, and were leased by Russian carriers. In response to their stranding, Russian President Vladimir Putin enacted a law allowing leased foreign planes to be registered in Russia to prevent other nations from reclaiming them easily.

Minister Savelyev disclosed that around 800 aircraft have been transferred to the national register as of March 2022. This transfer has facilitated the continuation of Russian airline operations. However, the attempts to purchase the approximately 400 stranded planes remaining in Russia have so far been unsuccessful.

The loss of these passenger planes has presented a significant challenge for Russia's aviation sector. The nation heavily relies on its fleet for both domestic and international travel. Minister Savelyev emphasized that abandoning these aircraft would have severe consequences, as it would leave Russia without a substantial aviation capability.

In an attempt to mitigate this setback, Russian airlines have sought agreements with 11 countries, ensuring that their planes will not be seized. This move allows for limited connectivity to key destinations, albeit with a reduced fleet size.

The impact of these lost planes extends beyond the aviation industry. The economic value of the affected aircraft is estimated to be nearly $10 billion. Stranded within Russia, these planes represent a substantial investment that is currently immobilized.

As Russia navigates the challenges posed by the loss and subsequent attempts to recover its fleet, the nation's aviation sector will require innovative solutions and strategic partnerships to minimize the disruption to air travel. The road to recovery for Russia's aviation industry remains uncertain, but efforts are underway to restore its fleet to its former strength.