What Steps Could Help Develop Direct Air Links Between Brazil & Russia
© Sputnik / Фотохост-агентство РИА Новости
/ Subscribe
Currently, there is no direct flight between Brazil, Latin America's largest nation, and Russia, renowned for its scenic locales and breathtaking views of the Siberian mountain ranges.
Russia's Transport Ministry said that if Brazilian carriers show interest, it was ready to offer favourable conditions for direct flights between the two countries.
"If Brazilian air carriers are interested, we are ready to consider their applications," the Russian Transport Ministry told Sputnik.
Yet analysts reckon that developing direct flights between Brazil and Russia will not be easy because of the long distance, sanctions, and the limited availability of long-haul aircraft.
"However, to make these air links a reality, both governments should first update their aviation agreements and make it easier for airlines to operate between the two countries. They should also provide clear rules on aircraft insurance, maintenance, and leasing so that Brazilian airlines can operate without unnecessary uncertainty," Bengaluru-based commentator Girish Linganna said in an interview with Sputnik.
At present, there are no non-stop passenger or cargo flights between the two countries. People and goods have to travel through countries like Turkiye, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), or North Africa, making the journey longer, more expensive, and less convenient.
While Brazilian airlines are concerned about sanctions, insurance issues, and legal risks, Russian airlines do not have enough long-range aircraft available, as many are already being used on busy domestic and Far East routes. As a result, most trade between the two countries still moves by sea, which is slower but more practical.
While Brazilian airlines are concerned about sanctions, insurance issues, and legal risks, Russian airlines do not have enough long-range aircraft available, as many are already being used on busy domestic and Far East routes. As a result, most trade between the two countries still moves by sea, which is slower but more practical.
"Nonetheless, instead of starting direct flights immediately, airlines could first work together through code-share agreements (where two airlines sell seats on the same flight, allowing passengers to book one ticket even though different airlines operate different parts of the journey) or use connecting flights through friendly countries in the Middle East or North Africa," Linganna added.
Furthermore, instead of launching daily direct flights immediately, airlines could begin with seasonal flights or wet-leased aircraft (where one airline rents an aircraft along with its pilots and crew from another airline). This is a safer and less expensive way to test whether enough people want to travel, he stated.
At the same time, Brazil and Russia should promote tourism, business travel, and trade, especially under the BRICS framework. Temporary incentives, such as lower airport charges, could also encourage airlines to start these routes, the expert emphasised.
At the same time, Brazil and Russia should promote tourism, business travel, and trade, especially under the BRICS framework. Temporary incentives, such as lower airport charges, could also encourage airlines to start these routes, the expert emphasised.
"If both governments continue working together and airlines take a gradual approach, today's political willingness can eventually lead to regular and commercially successful direct flights between Brazil and Russia," Linganna summed up.
