Attending the 2018 Russian World Cup – Part 3: Fuel, CIQ, Security & Local Area

This is a post by author Dmitry Konovalov. Dmitry is general director for  Universal Aviation Russia – Khabarovsk, based in Khabarovsk (UHHH), which provides 24/7 coordination of flight permits and ground handling services throughout Russia including supervision services at all Moscow airports. Dmitry is an expert on business aircraft operations in Russia and can be contacted at dmitrykonovalov@universalaviation.aero.
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This business aviation blog post continues from our article last week, entitled “Attending the 2018 Russian World Cup – Part 2: Permits, Cabotage & Visas“.

Sourcing adequate crew accommodations at World Cup venue locations can be a concern, particularly for shorter notice or last minute operations. Support providers and local ground handlers will have options available but these may not be in preferred areas or the particular hotel brand you may be looking for.

The following is an overview of what you need to know:

1. Fuel uplifts


At airports in Russia you’ll find only TS-1 jet fuel. While this is similar to Jet-A or Jet-A1 it’s important for operators to check their manuals to ensure this type of fuel can be uplifted. Note that fuel additives, commonly available in North America or Europe may not be readily available in Russia. For this reason it’s best to confirm additive availability prior to travel and, when necessary, to arrange to have the fuel additive brought in.

2. Crew accommodations


While good accommodations are available in all World Cup host cities options in terms of 4- and 5-star properties, particularly international chain hotels, will be limited in many locations. Crew accommodations should be booked as soon as schedule is known. Be mindful that many hotels will sell out, pricing will be higher than normal and cancelation policies will be more stringent.

3. Ground transport


For local transport, particularly to busy locations hosting active World Cup events, it’s best to arrange vetted prepaid (car with driver) transport. This helps avoid transport delays while mitigating security risks. Note that prepaid transport, particularly if requesting specific makes/models of vehicles, will be limited during World Cup events and should be organized well prior to arrival. Only certified vehicles and licensed drivers will be allowed to approach airports, World Cup venues and major public locations.

4. Security considerations


While the overall security threat level in Russia is low to moderate, there’s political tension to be aware of as well as isolated risks of terrorist events. Major sporting events, such as the World Cup, can attract local altercations, skirmishes and protests. To mitigate such risks it’s best to monitor local news, avoid larger crowds and have alternate routes to your destination in mind. As in any major world city, street crime and petty theft is always a consideration to be mindful of. We recommend that operators to Russia, particularly operators unfamiliar with the region, obtain security briefs prior to travel.

5. Clearing CIQ


During the World Cup period additional customs/immigration officers and additional clearance kiosks will be organized for host city airports. The target is for the customs, immigration and quarantine (CIQ) clearance process to be about three minutes per passenger. At airports with fixed base operators (FBOs) or general aviation terminals (GATs), CIQ clearance will take place within these facilities. At other locations passengers/crew will clear within the main terminal.

6. Important information


For more information on the 2018 Russian World Cup see the official website:
https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/

For more information on airports, permits and procedures see:
http://www.universalweather.com/russia2018

7. Additional Reading: Operating Requirements


Note: Links will be updated as articles are published.

• Part 1 – airports, slots, and parking
• Part 2 – permits, cabotage and visas
• Part 3 – fuel, customs, immigration, and security

Conclusion


Primary fuel type available in Russia is TS-1, so it’s always recommended that operators ensure they are able to uplift it. CIQ will have additional resources to cut down on the clearance time and when there are FBOs or GATs, then the clearance will be completed there. Security presence will be enhanced during the Russian World Cup period. Extra security patrols, both police and military, will be in force at airports, stadiums and other large crowd areas in order to mitigate any possible risks. Expect many vehicle inspection checkpoints as well as total road closures from time to time.

Questions?


If you have any questions about this article or would like assistance planning your trip to the 2018 Russia World Cup, contact me at dmitrykonovalov@universalaviation.aero.


Related posts:

1. Attending the 2018 Russian World Cup – Part 2: Permits, Cabotage & Visas
2. Attending the 2018 Russian World Cup – Part 1: Airports, Slots, Parking, & Planning
3. BizAv Trip Planning: 2016 Russian Grand Prix – Part 2: Permits, Slots, CIQ and Local Area

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