Transaero Airlines was a major Russian private carrier that operated scheduled and charter international and domestic flights. Founded in 1990, it became Russia's second-largest airline by passenger volume, competing directly with the state-backed Aeroflot on key routes. The airline built an extensive network covering destinations across Europe, Asia, North America, and popular resort regions. It operated a large fleet of Boeing aircraft and was known for offering competitive fares and multiple cabin classes including Imperial class. Transaero collapsed in October 2015 following severe financial difficulties exacerbated by the Russian economic downturn, Western sanctions, and a drop in the ruble's value. Its operating certificate was revoked, and Aeroflot and other carriers absorbed many of its routes and stranded passengers.