Russia calls on ICAO to lift aviation sanctions ahead of Montreal assembly

ICAO, a United Nations agency responsible for international civil aviation standards, has condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The organization cited violations of Ukrainian airspace sovereignty and issues with dual registration of aircraft.

Following the invasion, Russia was subjected to multiple rounds of sanctions by the US, European Union, and other countries. These included bans on Russian airlines using Western airspace and restrictions on leasing, importing, or exporting aircraft and related materials. Financial and insurance services connected with aviation were also curtailed.

Russian authorities have also criticized the ban on flights operated by their airlines in 37 countries as well as limitations on aircraft maintenance and insurance services. At the same time, Russia is seeking election to ICAO’s 36-state governing council—a move opposed by Canada among others.

Sanctions have made it difficult for Russia’s civil aviation sector to operate efficiently. As a country spanning 11 time zones, Russia depends heavily on commercial flights for both passengers and cargo. Industry sources indicate that many Airbus and Boeing jets are aging rapidly due to challenges in sourcing replacement parts through unofficial channels. This could lead to a growing number of grounded aircraft if supply problems persist.

After the war began, Russia retained more than 400 aircraft originally owned by foreign lessors—some were paid for later—but no new deliveries have been possible since then. The average age of fleets is increasing while access to maintenance remains problematic despite irregular supplies obtained via allied countries.

These circumstances have led some experts and authorities to warn about potential safety risks if adequate maintenance cannot be ensured. There have been several plane crashes in Russia since 2022; one recent incident involved an Angara Airlines Antonov An-24 crash in Southeastern Russia that resulted in 48 fatalities.

In contrast, US authorities recently eased some restrictions against Belavia—the national airline of Belarus—after Belarus released political prisoners. This exemption allows Belavia legal access to new planes and spare parts but has prompted concerns that these parts might eventually reach Russian operators.