Transport Department Defends Decision To Allow US-Sanctioned Russian Plane To Land In SA

The Department of Transport has defended its decision to grant a landing permit to a Russian cargo plane reportedly sanctioned by the United States over links to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The Ilyushin IL-76 aircraft, operated by Moscow-based Abakan Air, landed recently in Upington, Northern Cape, carrying general cargo, civilian helicopters and acrobatic equipment. After refuelling at Lanseria Airport, it departed seemingly without cargo.

The incident has fuelled speculation that it could further strain relations between South Africa and the United States, which have already been tense due to South Africa’s perceived stance on the Russia-Ukraine war.

Department Says All Procedures Were Followed

Transport Department spokesperson Collen Msibi said the department acted strictly within the boundaries of South African aviation law.

He explained that Abakan Air is not blacklisted by the South African government and that no official communication had been received from any foreign government regarding sanctions or safety concerns.

“Our duty is to process a permit. We don’t have any provisions that require us to look for other conditions beyond those outlined in the legislation for granting a permit. In our legislation, there is nothing that requires us to vet anyone who comes to us for a permit,” said Msibi.

He added that if the aircraft or operator had been officially blacklisted, the government would have been notified and acted accordingly.

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The landing comes amid increased scrutiny of South Africa’s diplomatic and trade relations with Russia.

Critics argue that such incidents could expose the country to further diplomatic backlash, while officials maintain that their actions are guided purely by domestic law and international aviation protocols.

Despite mounting pressure, the Department of Transport insists that the landing permit was granted lawfully and transparently, without political influence or deviation from regulatory procedures.

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