Russian Aviation Regulator Launches Probe Into Top Charter Carrier Over Passenger Rights

Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency, Rosaviatsia, has initiated an unscheduled inspection of Azur Air, the country's largest charter airline. The probe, requested by the agency and authorized by the Prosecutor General's Office, comes in response to what officials describe as persistent operational failures.

According to a statement published on the regulator's Telegram channel, the investigation focuses on systemic issues including frequent flight delays and the airline's handling of affected passengers. Specific complaints involve failures to provide legally mandated services during disruptions and significant difficulties passengers face when attempting to obtain refunds.

The inspection is scheduled to conclude by March 5. If the allegations are substantiated, Azur Air could face sanctions ranging from fines to a restriction of its operating certificate. Rosaviatsia emphasized that the review should not disrupt the airline's current flight schedule.

The scrutiny follows a recent high-profile incident where hundreds of Russian tourists were stranded at a Thai airport. A February 23rd Azur Air flight from Phuket to Mineralnye Vody was delayed for 33 hours due to a landing gear malfunction on a Boeing 767-300 aircraft, highlighting the reliability concerns now under official examination.