Dmitry Yadrov, head of Russia’s civil aviation regulator, expressed concerns that the P&W engine issue could impact the country’s passenger numbers, forecasting a 7pc decrease to 98.1m this year depending on S7’s fleet situation.
S7 Airlines faces challenges in keeping its fleet of A320neo and A321neo aircraft operational due to Western sanctions on Russia affecting the maintenance of Pratt & Whitney PW1000G engines.
Currently, S7 Airlines has a significant portion of its fleet grounded, with thirty-one A320-200Ns, four A321-200Ns, and four A321-200NX all powered by Pratt & Whitney engines.
Dmitry Yadrov said “these aircraft carry a significant volume of passengers, but the operation of these engines requires increased attention – operators around the world have complained about this. For now, we are moving towards the figure of 98.1m. In August-September, there will be a more precise understanding of what final passenger flow figure Russian civil aviation will reach by the end of 2024”
S7 Airlines opposes a Kremlin plan to rebuild airport infrastructure at the expense of airline revenues, with concerns raised about potential cost increases passed on to passengers through higher ticket prices.
