ST. PETERSBURG – A domestic flight bound for the Arctic circle was forced to abort its climb shortly after takeoff from Pulkovo Airport (LED) on Monday morning, as pilots reported a technical issue with the aircraft’s landing gear.
Rossiya Flight SU6343, operated by a four-year-old Sukhoi Superjet 100-95B (registration RA-89174), departed St. Petersburg for Murmansk before the crew noticed the irregularity. Per standard safety protocols for landing gear discrepancies, the pilots ceased their ascent and established a holding pattern.
Current Status
The aircraft has been maintaining a constant altitude of 5,000 feet for approximately 30 minutes. Aviation tracking data shows the Superjet performing a series of holding loops south of the city.
- Reason for Delay: The crew is currently burning off fuel to reduce the aircraft’s weight.
- Objective: Landing with a full fuel load can exceed the maximum structural landing weight, potentially causing damage or safety risks upon touchdown.
- Destination: The flight is expected to return to Pulkovo Airport once the desired weight is achieved.
Aircraft Profile
The Sukhoi Superjet 100 involved in today’s incident is a relatively young airframe.
| Detail | Specification |
| Registration | RA-89174 |
| Aircraft Type | Sukhoi Superjet 100-95B |
| Age | 4 Years |
| Operator | Rossiya Airlines |
Emergency services at Pulkovo Airport have been placed on standby as a precaution, a routine measure for any aircraft returning with a suspected mechanical fault. There have been no reports of injuries on board, and the cabin remains under the controlled supervision of the flight crew.
UPDATES
1 – The flight SU6343 is now returning to LED, one hour after takeoff.
2 – Returned to LED, status unknown.
