Airbus suspends Russian support; deliberates options for engineering center

European aircraft manufacturer Airbus has announced that it is withdrawing parts and support services for all Russian airlines.

The company is also analyzing whether its Moscow engineering center will keep providing services to local customers as Russia continues to face mounting sanctions as a consequence of its invasion of Ukraine.

"Airbus has suspended support services to Russian airlines, as well as the supply of spare parts to the country," an Airbus spokesperson said in a statement seen by Reuters.

"The Airbus Engineering Center in Russia (ECAR) has put on hold all its operations for Airbus in line with sanctions," the statement said.

"Regarding engineering services ECAR provides to its Russian customers, ECAR is analyzing the export control sanctions to determine if this activity can be maintained in line with the sanctions."

According to Airbus’ website, the Airbus Engineering Center in Moscow was set up in 2003 under a joint-venture between Airbus, Systema Invest and the Kaskol group, and employs 200 Russian engineers.

American aircraft manufacturer Boeing, Airbus’ direct competitor, has also announced that it will suspend parts, maintenance and technical support for Russian airlines, and that it is temporarily closing its Kiev office, and simulator center in Moscow.