Stranded Russian Jets in Mexican Hangars Haunt Troubled Airline
- Four of Interjet’s 22 Superjet 100s are being cannibalized
- Offering freebies, competing with budget carriers takes toll
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In cavernous jet hangars in and around Mexico City, Interjet has a secret.
Four of the Mexican airline’s Sukhoi Superjet 100s -- out of a fleet of 22 -- have been grounded for at least five months because of engine maintenance delays. The Russian-made aircraft, which average just four years old, are now being cannibalized, an industry term for when a plane is slowly scrapped for parts to keep other jets running.