Canadian authorities move seized Russian cargo plane at Toronto Pearson for maintenance

A Russian Antonov An-124 cargo aircraft that has been stranded at Toronto Pearson International Airport since February 2022 was recently moved for maintenance, marking its first movement in over three years. The aircraft, operated by Volga-Dnepr Airlines and registered as RA-82078, arrived in Toronto carrying COVID-19 test kits shortly before Canada closed its airspace to Russian operators in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

After remaining stationary for more than a year, the Canadian government seized the plane due to concerns it could be used for military transport by Russia. Since then, the aircraft has accumulated significant parking fees and remains grounded at the airport.

Last week, footage shared on social media showed the An-124 taxiing across the apron at Toronto Pearson. According to an airport spokesperson, "The aircraft was moved last week for a few hours to another location on airport grounds for routine checks led by the federal government." The inspection is expected to continue until September 29.