As Russia prepared to invade Ukraine in the last week of February, those with the means to do so were preparing to leave Russia. More than 300 private flights left Russia from 24th of February through 27 February and nearly 1000 private flights departed Russia during the month of February. Those flights increased in tempo during the final weeks of the month, reaching a peak on 25 February.
Business jet departures from Russia in February
Russia invaded Ukraine on 24 February and departures spiked the following day with 60 departures leaving the country.
Total international departures from Russia in February flew to 135 destinations in 52 countries. The greatest number of flights arrived in France (105), Switzerland (104), and the United Kingdom (71). Warm weather destinations like Cyprus and the Maldives were also popular.
By city, ports, financial hubs, and close neighbors top the list of destinations.
Where did they come from?
The graph below segments international departures from Russia by registration location. Registration location doesn’t necessarily inform who is operating a flight or onboard as various localities have made business jet registration tax advantageous in their jurisdiction.