GEN-FAM PHOTOGRAPHY

An exceptional duo in Geneva

In early November 2019, Geneva's aviation enthusiasts were able to admire two rare Tu-154Ms from Damascus (Syria): RA-85042 and RA-85041, both belonging to the 223rd Flight Unit – State Airline of the Russian Air Force. The event, unusual in Geneva, immediately became the center of attention.

The 223rd Flight Unit

These aircraft are operated by the 223rd Flight Unit, a unit specializing in Russian government transport. RA-85042, serial number 12A-998, is the last Tu-154 ever produced, delivered in 2013.

Diplomatic mission

According to flight data, the aircraft operated under the callsigns CHD9003/9004 and RFF7471/7472, making a round trip from Damascus to Geneva on 2 & 3 November 2019. On board were about 60 Syrian officials attending a meeting at the UN in Geneva, which confirms the diplomatic objective of the mission.

Strategic Importance

The stopover of these two aircraft illustrates Russia's diplomatic and logistical reach. The Geneva stopover, which took place during a UN meeting, reinforces the role of these aircraft in official travel, particularly to sensitive regions.

Conclusion

On 2 and 3 November 2019, Geneva was marked by the exceptional stopover of two Russian Tu-154Ms, registrations RA-85041 and RA-85042. On a diplomatic mission from Damascus, these Russian Air Force aircraft, belonging to the prestigious 223rd Flight Unit aboard a Syrian delegation, aroused the admiration of enthusiasts. A powerful testament to the symbolic and strategic presence of aeronautical systems still in service despite their rarity.

Articles