According to a federal official and a government insider cited by Vedomosti, ten Russian airlines have established a specialized ruble account type C intended for lease payments to foreign aircraft owners and operators.
The same source noted that lessors have not yet received funds from these C accounts. Drafts and payment guarantees linked to leasing agreements are common, with letters of credit covering roughly three months of rent and maintenance deposits often required as part of the contract terms.
As a result, the actual prepaid lease payments across different airlines can range from three to eight months, depending on the structure of each lease and the financial arrangements in place.
Ongoing sanctions pressure, restricted airspace, and entry limitations have dramatically redirected traffic flows not only for international routes but within Russia as well. In response to a meeting held on May 24 to discuss developments in the transport sector, expert analysis highlighted how these shifts are reshaping the domestic and foreign air transport landscape. The commentary reflects concerns about the reliability of payments to foreign leasing partners amid tightened financial controls and the broader geopolitical environment.
Analysts note that the use of ruble accounts for leases is part of a broader strategy to maintain aircraft capacity and ensure continued access to essential aviation services, even as external financial constraints tighten. [Source: Vedomosti] Observers also point to the importance of liquidity management and credit instruments in sustaining leasing relationships during periods of heightened risk.
Industry observers emphasize that the evolving payment structures can influence leasing terms, maintenance schedules, and fleet deployment. The situation underscores the need for robust risk assessment, clear contractual protections, and transparent communication between Russian carriers and foreign lessors to navigate the current landscape without operational disruption. [Analysis attributed to Galina Sorokina, Doctor of Economics, Professor of the Department of World Economy and International Economic Relations at the State University of Management]