Russian private pilots are now free to fly about the country. All 2000 of them!
http://www.examiner.com/airlines-airport-in-national/russian-private-pilots-get-new-freedom

Wow, that's cool. I bet there will be a demand for flight instructors and small aircraft.

I looked it up a bit. Here's a longish article on the topic, for those who dares to brave Google Translate:
http://www.open-sky.su/?category=32&cla ... cles&id=46
Executive Summary: situation is horrifying, the red tape is 10 times worse than in any banana republic. The new rules are a step forward, but not going to make a big change.
-- Pete