Russian cargo plane worth $300M remains grounded at Toronto Pearson after court ruling
A judge has ruled the Antonov An-124 will stay in Canada despite Russia's attempts to reclaim it since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
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A massive Russian cargo aircraft has been ordered to remain at Toronto Pearson International Airport, a judge has ruled, ending Russia's years-long effort to reclaim the plane.
The Antonov An-124, one of the world's largest civil cargo aircraft, was grounded when Canada closed its airspace to all Russian aircraft in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Since then, the plane has sat idle at the airport, and Russia has repeatedly attempted to have it returned.
However, questions exist about whether the aircraft could still take to the skies even if released. The judge's ruling ensures it will remain in Canadian custody. The decision has triggered discussion about the government's longer-term plans for the aircraft, with aviation experts now weighing whether holding the plane remains a worthwhile use of resources.
The impound has become a symbol of Canada's response to Russian military aggression and the economic costs of sanctions tied to the invasion. For years, the plane sat as a visible reminder at one of Canada's busiest airports of the geopolitical rupture caused by the 2022 invasion.
The facts
What type of aircraft is grounded at Toronto Pearson?
An Antonov An-124, one of the world's largest civil cargo aircraft, is grounded at Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Why did Canada ground Russian aircraft?
Canada closed its airspace to all Russian aircraft following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which caused the Antonov An-124 to be grounded at Toronto Pearson.
What did the judge rule about the plane?
The judge ruled that the Antonov An-124 will remain in Canadian custody, ending Russia's years-long effort to reclaim it.
