Crossword Genius

Refugee seen before catching a Russian plane

Ross

I believe the answer is:

emigre

'refugee' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'before catching a russian plane' is the wordplay.
'before' becomes 'ere' (poetic term for 'before').
'catching' is an insertion indicator.
'a russian plane' becomes 'MiG' (MiG is a Russian aircraft manufacturer).
'ere' enclosing 'mig' is 'EMIGRE'.

'seen' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for emigre that I've seen before include "Regime (anag)" , "One living abroad (to escape regime)" , "Fugitive" , "One living abroad for political reasons" , "outcast?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent.
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