Aeroflot Group confirms addition of eight used aircraft, including freighters

Aeroflot confirmed the acquisition of eight used aircraft, including freighter models, during the third quarter of 2025, according to FlightGlobal.

The Russian group added two Boeing 747-400ERF and two 737-800BCF freighter aircraft to subsidiary Rossiya, along with four 737-800s delivered to low-cost carrier Pobeda, bringing the group’s total fleet to 360 aircraft.

Aeroflot’s fleet expansion comes amid ongoing restrictions on access to Western components, which has prompted the airline to seek alternative sources for aircraft and parts.

The newly acquired freighters were previously operated by Volga-Dnepr Airlines and were transferred in a deal valued at approximately 10 billion rubles (about R$ 640 million). The transaction was financed by the National Welfare Fund of Russia.

In October, Aeroflot began dismantling eight Boeing aircraft to secure spare parts, a move that may not be directly related to the recent acquisitions. The group continues to adapt its fleet management strategy in response to current supply chain challenges.

According to assessments cited by Ukrainian intelligence, Russia’s active civil aviation fleet could shrink by up to 50% by 2026 as maintenance difficulties and aircraft attrition continue to mount.

Volga-Dnepr Airlines, one of Russia’s leading cargo carriers for more than three decades, has also faced sanctions-related setbacks. Its subsidiary AirBridgeCargo suspended operations in 2022 after losing access to aircraft leases and maintenance support from Western partners.

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