Russian aviation regulator Rosaviatsia has restricted Azur Air’s operations for three months until June 8, 2026, following an unscheduled inspection from February 19 to March 5. The probe, conducted by transport supervisory agency Rostransnadzor, identified violations related to excessive flight delays, cancellations, aircraft technical issues, and inadequate passenger treatment.
Inspectors focused on the airline’s fleet condition, flight preparation compliance, maintenance standards, and passenger rights observance. Azur Air, a Moscow-based leisure carrier operating about a dozen Boeing 767-300ERs and 757-200s, serves 20 Russian cities and international holiday destinations including Phuket and Pattaya.
Rosaviatsia directed Azur Air chief Evgency Korolev to submit a clear rectification plan, emphasizing rapid flight safety improvements and a thorough internal audit of airworthiness and maintenance. The airline must reduce its flight schedule, with Rostransnadzor monitoring compliance. Failure to resolve issues by the deadline risks revocation of the air operator’s certificate.
“An uncompromising approach to violators of flight safety regulations will always be the foundation of the agency’s work,” stated Rosaviatsia chief Dmitry Yadrov. Azur Air reported over 90% punctuality at the end of 2025 but attributed early 2026 disruptions to airspace restrictions, weather, aircraft malfunctions, and events like unscheduled landings in China, Vietnam, and a Phuket return due to landing-gear issues. The carrier insists restrictions will not impact its schedule and all passenger obligations are fulfilled.