Premier and Transport Minister Dr. Ewart Brown departed for Russia yesterday where he will meet with that country's aviation authorities to "save Bermuda's aircraft registry".

The action comes after it was revealed in a press conference last week that the UK government has questioned the Aircraft Registry of Bermuda – particularly in relation to Russian aircraft.

"Bermuda is conducting a revenue raising business," claimed the UK Government. " [The United Kingdom] would find it hard to accept the ongoing operation of the register in its current form at all."

The Premier will be joining Thomas Dunstan, Bermuda's Director of Civil Aviation, who is already in Moscow. They intend to discuss this issue with Russian officials during the visit and provide a formal response to Her Majesty's Government upon his return, according to a statement released yesterday.

The Premier's Russian trip will include meetings with Russian airline officials and representatives of the Russian Department of Civil Aviation. Dr. Brown is expected to return to Bermuda on Thursday.

"The Aircraft Registry contributes millions of dollars to Bermuda's economy," the Premier said. "Its success is a result of the hard work and foresight of this Government and we will strenuously oppose any interference in our Aircraft Registry.

"We would prefer if the UK would give us an opportunity to make improvements to the Register. We understand the economic pressures in play in Europe but Bermuda must also prepare itself for the impact of the recession.

"The Registry is a significant revenue earner for our country."