While Russia and North Korea lauded the first direct flight between their capitals in decades as a symbol of growing ties late last month, conflicting coverage by Russian state media — some touting sold-out tickets and others revealing empty seats — has raised questions about who is really flying the route and why.   

On July 28, a Boeing 777-200ER (RA-73340) operated by Moscow-based Nordwind Airlines brought a Russian delegation and DPRK passengers to Pyongyang, reviving the long-defunct air route between the two capitals.

Russian state media heavily covered the flight, which can carry up to 440 people, airing interviews with