The maiden Tu-214 passenger flight after a pause in regular service proved successful, touching down in Sochi. The event was confirmed by TASS. The Red Wings airline operated the aircraft on a route from Zhukovsky Airport near Moscow. The airport’s press service noted that the Tu-214 landed at Sochi airport with a total of 177 passengers onboard for the inaugural flight, marking a successful operation.
On February 2, Red Wings Airlines recommenced passenger services using the restored Tu-214. Beginning next week, international routes are planned from Domodedovo to Yerevan, Batumi, and then Tel Aviv, all serviced by Tu-214 aircraft.
In July 2022, the Russian government directed the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) to restore a fleet that included 11 aircraft: one An-124, two Il-96-400T, and eight Tu-204/214s belonging to Red Wings, Volga-Dnepr, and Aviastar-Tu.
December 4 in Russia brought updates on the timing of readiness for delivering Tu-214 aircraft to operators.
Reports indicate that on January 15, the interiors of Tu-214 aircraft were inspected and prepared for service readiness.
Previously, Red Wings Airlines accepted the first Il-96-400T aircraft back into operation as part of the restoration program.