In Novosibirsk, authorities reported damage identified during the preflight checks of S7 Airlines flight 5785, which was scheduled to depart for Dubai. The information came from the AVIAINCIDENT Telegram channel and was later referenced by Sib.fm. The damage is linked to atmospheric electricity, with specialists noting evidence of a lightning impact on the aircraft. As a result, the airplane was grounded and barred from operating its scheduled service while investigators reviewed the findings. The aviation safety board announced that a formal investigation commission is being formed to determine the causes and assess the damage in detail.
The incident occurred during preparation on May 24 at Tolmachevo Airport when technicians detected lightning-related marks at the tip of the left wing. The marks prompted a halt in the flight’s readiness and a halt to departures until a full assessment could be completed. The grounding order underscored the industry emphasis on structural integrity and flight readiness after severe weather events.
Earlier reports described a separate disruption at Pulkovo Airport involving a NordStar service. The Y7-302/220523 flight from St. Petersburg to Krasnoyarsk experienced a prolonged delay – over a dozen reschedulings and cancellations within a single cycle. Passengers faced extended wait times and were not provided with adequate lodging or meals during the initial delays. The situation led some travelers to pursue alternative arrangements or attempt to obtain refunds for their tickets. The ongoing disruption reflects the broader challenges crews and passengers face when weather or operational issues cascade into lengthy delays.