Hit by Mid-War Turbulence, Russia Wants Indian Airlines to Operate Local Flights Within Its Territory

Since its airlines are unable to satisfy demand due to Western sanctions that prevent them from accessing US and European aircraft manufacturers and component suppliers, Russia has proposed allowing Indian airlines to fly local flights within its borders.

According to those familiar with the situation, a month ago, Russia made an approach to China, India, and many Central Asian countries with a "cabotage" plan that would permit their airlines to run flights on its internal routes. According to them, the issue was brought up once more during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BRICS summit visit to Russia last week. According to the sources, Indian airlines have voiced their concerns about the plan and informed the administration that it would not be feasible for them to operate in Russia.

The majority of Indian airlines' fleets are leased, and their lessors won't allow their aircraft to travel to Russia. We run the danger of losing insurance coverage in addition to that," a top airline official stated. "We are unable to accommodate our anticipated growth due to a severe aircraft scarcity. It is doubtful that such a project will be carried out under such a circumstance.

Before the conflict in Ukraine, a significant portion of Russian airlines' fleet was made up of Boeing and Airbus aircraft.?All scheduled supplies, however, have been stopped and sent to airlines in other nations because of the restrictions. Six Airbus A350s that were formerly scheduled for the Russian carrier Aeroflot were delivered early to Air India, which is controlled by the Tata Group.

Additionally, Western businesses have ceased providing Russia with software and components.?To avoid prolonged grounding, Russian aircraft must undergo frequent software updates, constant component replacements, and inspections. This has harmed growth. The domestic seats provided by Russian airlines are presently at or very close to 2019 levels, according to data from aviation consultant CAPA. Compared to 874 in 2019, there are now 771 aircraft in operation.

Despite sanctions from the US and Europe, trade between India and Russia has exploded, and India is one of the few countries that permits flights by Russian airlines. With a shorter trip duration than its European and American competitors, Air India is one of the few airlines still operating flights over Russian airspace.