CANADALAND The Massive Airplane Canada Seized from Russia
Sep 2, 2025
Zak Vescera, a reporter with the Investigative Journalism Foundation, dives into the unusual legal battle surrounding a massive Soviet-era cargo plane stranded at Toronto’s Pearson Airport. He explores how Canada aims to navigate uncharted legal waters by attempting to seize the aircraft from Russia. The conversation touches on the political fallout, U.S. sanctions impacting a Canadian judge, and the broader implications for international relations. Vescera also unravels the complexities of asset forfeiture laws and rising immigration challenges affecting Canada.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Stranded Antonov At Pearson
- The Antonov, a Soviet-era cargo plane, has been parked at Toronto Pearson for more than three years.
- It arrived in February 2022 carrying COVID-19 rapid tests and then became stranded after airspace closures.
Airspace Closures Created Legal Limbo
- Canada and Europe closed their airspace to Russian aircraft after the invasion of Ukraine, leaving the Antonov unable to return.
- That airspace closure put the aircraft into a legal and logistical limbo on Canadian soil.
Sanctions Escalated To Seize Physical Assets
- Canada expanded sanctions to target Russian businesses and individuals tied to the regime, including aviation figures.
- Authorities then announced intentions to seize and forfeit ownership of the Antonov under those sanctions.