Russian airlines face deeper losses as Ukraine crisis hits travel

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian airlines are facing a drop in passenger numbers because of the Ukraine crisis, prompting some analysts to expect fleet reductions and possible state support next year to cope with deepening losses.

The economy is teetering on the brink of recession, the rouble has shed almost 30 percent of its value this year and the cost of debt has risen for Russian companies as Western sanctions over Moscow's role in the conflict in Ukraine bite.