S7 has reportedly ceased all flights on Airbus A321neo. The airline claims that all eight A321neos are being prepared for the peak summer season, however Russian social media states otherwise. As per the social media channels, S7 airlines are being grounded as a result of engine problems since mid-January 2023.
According to industry sources, S7 is experiencing problems with Pratt & Whitney engines while the other airlines operating A321neos with CFM engines did not ground their fleets. However, S7 claimed that the aircraft are not grounded but are under maintenance for next season.
Responding to TASS news, spokesperson for S7 said: “Traditionally, during the winter season, a part of our aircraft fleet undergoes planned maintenance to prepare them for the summer season. Fewer routes require aircraft with large passenger capacity due to seasonal drop in demand.”
S7 is under export sanctions from US and EU. The aircraft fleet operated by the airline is not supported by the OEM since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
S7 received their A321neos between 2017 and 2021. All the aircraft were leased, and the airline did not return them to lessors as recommended by the Russian government.