Roman Abramovich faces aviation challenges amid ongoing international sanctions

Abramovich's aviation portfolio includes luxury aircraft such as the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner registered as P4-BDL. Acquired in 2021 for $350 million, it features customized interiors with private bedrooms and advanced security systems. The Gulfstream G650ER complements this fleet with seating for up to 18 passengers and long-range capabilities.

These aircraft are registered offshore in places like Aruba and Luxembourg for privacy and tax benefits. However, these registration choices have faced scrutiny due to sanctions targeting Russian assets post-2022.

The U.S. Department of Commerce identified Abramovich's aircraft as violating export controls due to flights made to Russia without special permission. Consequently, a federal judge authorized their seizure by U.S. authorities.

As of March 2025, both jets remain grounded due to operational restrictions imposed by sanctions. The Boeing is stationed at Al Maktoum airport in Dubai with no recorded international flights since sanctions began. The Gulfstream was last reported near Moscow with limited public flight records.

Sanctions against Abramovich highlight Western strategies targeting Russian oligarchs by restricting access to luxury assets and limiting mobility as repercussions for geopolitical actions continue to unfold.