Aeroflot sends its aircraft to Iran for repair for first time

Russian airline Aeroflot has sent its aircraft to Iran for repairs for the first time in its history amid Western sanctions.

"An Airbus A330-300 wide-body airliner with registration number RA-73700 flew to Tehran on 5 April, where the aircraft will be serviced by technicians from Mahan Air, i.e., Iran's largest airline," RBC reported, citing two sources close to the airline.

Aeroflot has discussed the possibility of maintenance in Iran for several months.

"The key task of sending the first A330 to Mahan Air for repair is maintaining the aircraft's landing gear struts. Previously, Aeroflot used other providers’ facilities, including Hong Kong-based HAECO, for these purposes. In the summer of 2021, the carrier signed a new long-term agreement to maintain and overhaul aircraft components with this company," RBC writes.

However, international sanctions have affected, among other things, repair services and the supply of spare parts to Russian carriers.

According to the news agency, Aeroflot is Russia's largest airline, with 178 Airbus and Boeing aircraft in its fleet as of 1 April.