An Aeroflot Airbus A321 parked at Geneva Airport since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has deteriorated to the point that Swiss authorities consider a return to service highly unlikely. The aircraft, VP-BOE, has remained on long-term stand since 27 February 2022 after airspace closures blocked its departure, and reports describe a machine now exposed to years of neglect, with no meaningful maintenance and equipment falling into poor condition.
The jet’s ownership and lease structure add to the stalemate, with the aircraft operated by Aeroflot and tied to a leasing arrangement involving GTLK and GTLK Europe DAC. Parking costs have continued to accumulate throughout the immobilisation, with estimates putting the bill at about CHF 30,000 a month, or roughly CHF 984 a day, taking the total to more than CHF 1.6 million. Officials have also pointed to the aircraft’s physical state, including possible structural damage and unusable onboard systems, while the cabin has reportedly been left with spoiled meals and a persistent foul smell.
The case highlights the practical consequences of sanctions and airspace restrictions for aircraft caught outside their home market. Even after more than four years on the ground, the A321 remains at Geneva with no clear path back into commercial service.