newstodate.aero

Dec 11, 2023 (newstodate): Before the sanctions hit Russia's aviation industry, the Volga-Dnepr Group's AirBridgeCargo reigned supreme in the industry, lifting some 42 percent of all cargo carried by Russian airlines.
   But since February 2022, ABC has been grounded as its fleet comprised only sanctioned western-built aircraft totaling 16 units - three Boeing 747-400F, 12 Boeing 747-8F and one Boeing 777F.
   Now, another Russia cargo carrier Sky Gates that also earlier operated Boeing 747 freighter aircraft is pinning its hopes for a return to the skies with renovated Russian-built IL-96-400T freighter aircraft, long in storage.
   On December 10, 2023, the carrier performed its first commercial flight with its single IL-96-400T aircraft into Moscow Zhukovsky Airport.
   The aircraft obtained its airworthiness certificate in September 2023 after a comprehensive reactivation program, and ABC is expected to receive another aircraft of the type after a similar maintenance and upgrading program.
   Il-96-400T offers a maximum payload weight at 92 tonnes and a flight range with maximum load at 5,000 km.