Putin's Dependence on Soviet-Era Planes Raises Questions Amid Recent World Leader Crashes

President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia has been focusing on strengthening alliances and security ties with other countries, notably North Korea and Vietnam, in the midst of ongoing conflict in Ukraine. During his visits abroad, he frequently utilizes aging Soviet-designed Ilyushin Il-96 series jets for air travel.

Air Safety and Assurance

Recent plane crashes involving world leaders, including President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran and Vice President Saulos Chilima of Malawi, have raised concerns. In response, a Kremlin spokesman emphasized the reliability of Mr. Putin’s aircraft, seeking to reassure the Russian public.

Use of Dated Aircraft

Despite the shift by Russian airline carriers to modern Western aircraft, both major airlines, Aeroflot and Rossiya, have excluded Ilyushin planes from their commercial passenger fleet. Nevertheless, President Putin remains committed to using the Il-96 for his official travel, often accompanied by fighter jets.

Recent Trips and Diplomatic Missions

In 2023, President Putin flew an Il-96 on a rapid day trip to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia for high-level discussions with leaders. Notably, an Il-96 from the government’s fleet was observed making stops in Washington and New York to retrieve Russian diplomats who were instructed to leave the United States earlier in the same year.