Many operators find as they plan to travel between Europe and Asia that many of the aircraft are not able to make it without a tech stop. Here are the options available.

Fortunately, there are several good locations in Siberia for a tech stop. The area known as Siberia is vast and by itself would be the largest country in the world by area. It is also one of the most sparsely populated areas in the world, so the airports in Siberia are an invaluable lifeline for this community. Because of the increased commerce between Russian Siberia and China, the Siberian airports have seen a growth in air traffic. So, let’s look at the considerations for a fuel stop in Russia.

Permits

Landing and overflight permissions are required for all flights. Standard aircraft documents are required as well as a copy of the maintenance records. If it is a charter flight, a copy of the AOC is required.

Weather

The climate of Siberia varies dramatically, but it has short summers and long, extremely cold winters. The Russian winter can be excruciating, and for some of these locations, the temperatures can be amongst the coldest in the world. Almost all the population live in the south, beside the Trans-Siberian Railway. On the north coast, north of the Arctic Circle, there is a very short (about one-month-long) summer. The climate in this southernmost part is considered a humid continental climate with cold winters but relatively warm summers lasting at least four months. Deicing equipment will be required. We will list the airports it is available at in the second part of this blog.

Services

Ensure you have the name and telephone number of the person meeting and assisting your flight. The airports listed below will have the equipment needed for a technical refuelling turn. If any special ground support equipment is needed, ensure you check on its availability. Maintenance facilities are limited, and customs clearance for AOG parts can be a drawn-out process. Your Service Provider should be able to assist with facilitation.

Hangarage

It is vital to note that aircraft hangarage is extremely limited.

Logistics

Hotels, ground transportation, and catering options are limited.

Customs considerations

Ensure you are using an airport of entry both in and out of Russia. General Declaration should be stamped in and outbound of Russia.

Visas

Visas are not required for fuel stop as long as nobody leaves the airport. If fuel and crew rest is required, ensure you have Russian visas secured in advance.

Alternates

Because of the vast expanse of the territory, the suitable alternates are quite distant. Additionally, Russian ATC has on occasion, held operators down. Tip: be conservative with your fuel planning.

Fuel

Jet fuel is readily available, and shortages at these airports have not recently been reported.

Parking

Parking has not been an issue at these airports.

Schedule changes

The Russian Federation Civil Aviation Administration does not like to deal with a lot of changes but will tolerate a few. In past experiences, it is more effective to delay rather than try to leave early.