Russia takes up almost 40 percent of the entire continent of Asia. In a country this big, planes are a primary means of transport. Many locals and tourists alike choose to spend days on the train rather than a few hours in the air. Why is it? And does the fear of air transportation in Russia have any rational background? Here is the ultimate answer to the question “Are Russian airlines safe?”
Why do Russian Airlines have a bad reputation?
The reputation of the Russian airlines, just like the reputation of many other things in Russia, dates back to the Cold War. There were years back in the day when Aeroflot, at the time the only Soviet carrier, was responsible for half of all the aeroplane crash deaths in the world. Aeroflot, still the largest of Russian airlines, has now upgraded all of their planes to Boeings and Airbuses. It became a member of SkyTeam and enjoys an excellent international reputation. The times when it was the only carrier in the country are long gone. How about other Russian airlines then? Are other Russian airlines safe?
What do the stats say?
There were 41 crashes of former-Soviet airlines. Many of them were operated by planes produced in Soviet Russia. Out of the 10 planes deemed the least safe by airlineratings.com, 10 are Russian. Many of the Babyflots – airlines which separated themselves from Aeroflot after the dissolution of the Soviet Union – still use some of those models.
How do other countries compare?
Aeroflot is, unfortunately, responsible for the most deaths in the aviation history. It is followed by AirFrance, but the victim count of Aeroflot is a few times higher. The only country with a record of more passenger deaths than Russia is the US, which operates 13 times more flights than Russia.
To fly or not to fly?
Train travel in Russia is an experience in itself. It is something you should do if only time permits. If you’re in a rush, though, flying is a great option. Make sure to pick one of the leading, international airlines though – to stay on the safe side.
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meet our Local Insider
Hanna
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
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I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
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