Evacuation from the Middle East to Moscow
In March 2026, a private jet evacuation operation transported Russian citizens from the Middle East to Moscow. The fleet included an aircraft associated with former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, alongside jets from Russian companies. This evacuation highlights the reliance on private aviation during regional instability when commercial flights are grounded.
Aircraft Used in the Operation
Seven aircraft arrived in Oman between March 1 and 3. One, a Dassault Falcon 900C (tail number RA-09617), operated by the Russian company 'Severo-Zapad', flew routes from Oman to Moscow from March 2–4, 2026. This same jet is notable for having carried Viktor Yanukovych to Belarus on March 7, 2022, for Russia-Ukraine negotiations.
- A Tu-204–300 (RA-64053), owned by Roscosmos, arrived in Suhar on March 2. Tickets for its flight reportedly cost up to €20,000.
- A Bombardier Global 5000 (RA-67136) operated by Rusjet arrived in Fujairah (UAE) on March 3 and departed for Moscow the same day. On board were Yevgeniy Manturov, son of Russian Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, and his wife Varvara, who is the daughter of businessman and State Duma deputy Andrey Skoch.
- A Mitsubishi Challenger 850 (RA-67677) departed from Dubai on March 2. That same day, UAE authorities announced the opening of safe air corridors.
The evacuation was a critical response, as approximately 700 Russians had been stranded, unable to return home after Emirates canceled all flights in the direction and ceased covering hotel accommodations for passengers.
This evacuation underscores not only the turbulent situation in the Middle East but also the vital role private aircraft play in crises when conventional air travel becomes impossible.
The opening of safe air corridors by the UAE reflects efforts by local authorities to ensure the safety of their citizens and foreigners caught in difficult circumstances. Such measures can have further implications for international relations and regional security.