A legal battle is brewing over six Airbus aircraft that became caught in the fallout from Russia-related sanctions.
Russian state-owned aircraft lessor GTLK Europe is seeking at least $72 million from easyJet in a lawsuit filed at London’s High Court.
The case alleges easyJet abandoned six leased Airbus jets in Madrid and Cyprus in 2022 after terminating their leases, claiming EU sanctions prevented the airline from maintaining or repairing them.
But the lessor disputes that argument, saying the sanctions did not apply because the aircraft remained outside Russia and the leasing company was based in Ireland.
Three aircraft stranded at Cyprus’ Larnaca International Airport were eventually recovered and sold. However, they reportedly fetched at least $32.5 million less than expected because of their poor condition.
Three more aircraft remain in Madrid, awaiting sale.
EasyJet says it intends to defend the claim in full.
The case could determine who ultimately bears the enormous financial cost when aircraft leases collide with international sanctions. 
