Another Il-76 Joins the Mysterious Revival of Soviet-Era Cargo Aircraft. Now TL-YAZ
Over the past year, an unusually large number of Ilyushin Il-76 transport aircraft have returned to service after spending years, and sometimes decades, in storage. Many of these Soviet-era freighters are now operating from airports in the United Arab Emirates to destinations across Africa, where some are reportedly involved in transporting weapons and other military equipment. Three examples of Il-76 aircraft that were refurbished after years in storage and subsequently flown to the Middle East are EX-76027, EX-76028 and XT-ABL.
Another long-stored Il-76 appears to be joining this growing fleet. On 7 November 2026, an Ilyushin Il-76 registered TL-YAZ flew from Tashkent, Uzbekistan, to Aqaba, Jordan. The aircraft, bearing construction number 0093498954, previously operated with Uzbekistan Airways under the registration UK-76794. For a complete overview of active Il-76 aircraft, see this article.
Copyright Aviaspotteruz via Jetphotos
After spending more than 23 years in storage, the aircraft was reportedly intended for sale to the Equatorial Guinea Air Force, under the registration 3C-TM09. An initial attempt to ferry the aircraft from Tashkent to Aqaba in early August 2026 was unsuccessful. Operating as 3C-TM09, the Il-76 reportedly turned back due to technical problems. It subsequently remained grounded in Tashkent for another three months. On 7 November, the aircraft finally departed for Aqaba, this time carrying the registration TL-YAZ and transmitting the Mode S hex code 4D808F.
The aircraft’s current ownership and operating arrangements remain unclear.
TL-YAZ is not the only Il-76 to have recently appeared on the register of the Central African Republic. Two other aircraft, TL-ATB and TL-ATD, are reportedly operating for Invicta Air Cargo.
Aqaba may serve as an intermediate stop where TL-YAZ undergoes further maintenance, refurbishment or repainting before entering operational service.
Given the recent pattern of reactivated Il-76 aircraft operating from the United Arab Emirates, it would not be surprising if TL-YAZ eventually appeared at one of the country’s airports.
For now, however, its next destination, future operator and intended role remain unknown.
