A recent report from Aerotime, citing information from the Moscow Times, reveals that Aeroflot, the Russian flag carrier, has taken an unprecedented step to address a challenge stemming from trade sanctions. The airline has reportedly deactivated brakes on a number of its widebody and single-aisle aircraft, numbering at least six and three respectively. The move has been attributed to difficulties in sourcing replacement parts due to the trade restrictions.
In response to this situation, pilots have been instructed to rely solely on engine braking during landings. However, the protocol for handling scenarios such as aborted takeoffs remains unclear. The Moscow Times and Aerotime translations of associated Aeroflot memos indicate that these aircraft are permitted to operate without brakes for a period of up to 10 days, though the future course of action beyond this time frame remains uncertain.
A memo from Aeroflot to its pilots sheds some light on the unique challenges posed by this situation. "The aircraft will tend to turn to the side where the brakes are not deactivated,” the translated memo reportedly states. "Pay attention to this fact, especially when landing on a wet runway with a crosswind!!! There are restrictions on the width of the runway. The risk of overrunning the runway!!!" The affected aircraft, including five Boeing 777s, an A330, two A321s, and an A320, currently operate with these limitations according to reports and memos.
As trade sanctions present an intricate backdrop, Aeroflot's innovative approach to managing braking constraints underscores the complexities faced by airlines operating within such constraints. The temporary measures enacted by the carrier to address this challenge highlight the resourcefulness and adaptability within the aviation industry.
