Russia plans ticket surcharge to bankroll struggling aircraft industry

Starting in 2027, Russia will impose a ticket levy to support its civilian aircraft program, charging 500 roubles for domestic flights and 1,000 roubles for international ones. This initiative, directed by President Putin, aims to fund the leasing and operation of 258 aircraft, including models like the MS-21 and Tu-214. The Russian civilian aircraft industry has struggled since the Ukraine invasion, failing to produce new aircraft and missing production targets. The fleet has diminished due to the retirement of foreign-built planes, and sanctions have hindered access to Western aircraft and parts. Despite legal challenges, Russia has re-registered many foreign-leased aircraft domestically, leading to ongoing disputes with lessors.