In the early 90s Russia wasn't the rogue state actor of today but a dishevelled just post-Soviet era basket case. This led to some weird events like selling new aircraft to the Chinese in return for meat! Anyway Sichuan found itself with new TU-154s whether it wanted them or not. Here's the story:
I really like the updated Phoenix TU-154 and I wish they'd get off of their bottoms and use it more often!
Sichuan Airlines Tupolev TU-154M by rstretton, on Flickr
I really like the updated Phoenix TU-154 and I wish they'd get off of their bottoms and use it more often!
Sichuan Airlines Tupolev TU-154M by rstretton, on Flickr