Ural Airlines Plans to Take Off from Wheat Field Following Emergency Landing

Ural Airlines, the Russian carrier that made headlines last month with an emergency landing in a wheat field, has announced plans to take off from the same field after completing necessary repairs. The incident, which occurred in western Siberia’s Novosibirsk region, was attributed to a hydraulics fault. Fortunately, all 167 passengers on board the Airbus A320 aircraft landed safely.

According to Ural Airlines, preliminary technical assessments indicate that the aircraft is in good condition and not seriously damaged. The airline is considering various options for the plane’s departure from the field, including removing seats to reduce weight. The decision to fly the aircraft again comes at a time when Russia is facing an aircraft shortage due to Ukraine-related sanctions and the ban on Western aircraft and spare parts.

Ural Airlines, along with other Russian carriers, has been keeping their fleet of Western jets operational by importing spare parts through third countries without the manufacturers’ consent. Some airlines have even resorted to stripping planes for parts. The Airbus A320 in question, equipped with CFM International engines, was re-registered under the Russian flag last year.

The aircraft will remain in the field for several months under guard while inspections, maintenance, and repairs are carried out. Ural Airlines stated that engine tests have shown no need for repairs. However, the airline did not provide details regarding its contacts with Airbus, repair costs, or potential risks associated with their plan.

The incident last month was not the first time Ural Airlines faced an emergency landing in a field. In 2019, an Airbus A321 landed in a cornfield near Moscow after colliding with a flock of birds mid-flight. The aircraft was subsequently stripped down at the site.

As Ural Airlines continues to navigate the challenges posed by aircraft shortages, their decision to repair and fly the Airbus A320 from the wheat field demonstrates their commitment to maintaining their operations and providing safe travel options for passengers.