In a bold move amidst Western sanctions, Aeroflot and Rosatom have announced plans to embark on mass production of local replacement parts for Airbus and Boeing aircraft. These sanctions, triggered by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, have left Russian airlines like Aeroflot unable to import crucial components for their Airbus and Boeing fleets.

Consequently, they’ve been compelled to address maintenance issues in-house, relying on their own engineering expertise. The commencement of full-scale production for these replica parts is slated to take off in the first half of 2024, as reported.

In an interview with Izvestia, Aeroflot’s General Director, Alexey Mikhalik, and Technical Director, shared insights into the specific types of components they intend to manufacture. Mikhalik revealed, “We will be involved in the development, certification, and production of aviation components for a wide range of foreign aircraft, including those for cabin interiors, aircraft structural elements, and more.

The planned areas encompass air and water filtration elements, as well as various products made from plastic, metal, composite materials, honeycomb structures, and rubber. Additionally, they are venturing into electronic equipment for passenger cabins, encompassing inverters, power supplies, sensors, heating and lighting components, and various display equipment.”

Mikhalik also disclosed that scientific research, testing, and production activities are already in progress. However, all of these parts and components must undergo rigorous certification by the Federal Air Transport Agency to ensure their adherence to safety and quality standards.

This endeavor by Aeroflot and Rosatom demonstrates a strategic effort to overcome the challenges posed by sanctions and showcases Russia’s determination to maintain its aviation industry independently, even in the face of adversity.

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