Air TransportAeroflot would have started dismantling eight Boeing jets to supply its fleet
Aeroflot has begun dismantling eight Boeing aircraft — six 737-800BCF freighters and two 747-400F jets — to obtain spare parts and keep its fleet operational amid ongoing restrictions on access to Western components, according to reports.
The aircraft are being transferred from Volga-Dnepr Airlines to Aeroflot Group subsidiaries, including Pobeda and Rossiya Airlines, under a deal valued at around 10 billion rubles (approximately R$ 640 million). The transaction is reportedly financed through Russia’s National Welfare Fund.
The decision to dismantle the freighters marks an unprecedented step for a Russian passenger carrier and reflects the growing impact of international sanctions imposed after the invasion of Ukraine.
These measures have cut off Russian operators from acquiring new Western-built aircraft and certified maintenance support, forcing them to resort to so-called “parts cannibalization” to sustain operations.
The Boeing 737-800BCF is a converted cargo version of the popular 737 passenger jet, while the Boeing 747-400F is known for its long-range, high-capacity freight capability. Both models are widely used across the global logistics and air transport sectors.
Before sanctions took effect, Russia operated between 1,500 and 1,800 Western-built commercial aircraft. Since then, airlines have faced increasing challenges in sourcing components, maintaining airworthiness, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Industry analysts warn that parts obtained through unofficial channels may lack manufacturer warranties or complete maintenance records — raising potential concerns over safety and reliability.
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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