MARQUETTE, MI (WOWO) A Russian Ilyushin IL-78 cargo jet, grounded in 2009 due to legal and operational issues, could soon return to service. The aircraft, held in storage for 16 years, became the subject of multiple ownership disputes and creditor claims. The IL-78 landed at the airport in 2009 for refueling and was immediately affected by crew visa issues. Authorities detained several crew members, and a court issued a restraining order preventing the plane from leaving. The aircraft remained grounded while creditors, both domestic and international, contested control. Over the years, ownership changed multiple times. The aircraft was maintained at a storage cost of approximately $1,000 per month to prevent deterioration. Its current owner has cleared all liens and holds a clean title according to Bridge, Michigan. The aircraft, originally designed for mid-air refueling, can also function as a large cargo transporter capable of carrying vehicles or humanitarian aid. Interest in the plane has increased following global conflicts, raising its estimated value significantly. Before the jet can return to flight, engineers must complete inspections. Factory-level maintenance and checks are expected to take several months to ensure the aircraft is operational. Once completed, the IL-78 can be sold or deployed for cargo operations. This development concludes one of the longest-standing cases of a grounded aircraft in the United States, resolving legal, operational, and logistical issues that have kept the jet in storage for more than a decade. The post Russian IL-78 Cargo Jet Grounded Since 2009 May Fly Again appeared first on WOWO News/Talk 92.3 FM and 1190 AM. ...read more read less