Russia: Temporary restrictions on air traffic at 3 airports
TL;DR
Russia has imposed temporary air traffic restrictions at three airports due to security risks from drone attacks, causing significant financial losses for airlines and potential fare increases.
Russia: Temporary restrictions on air traffic at 3 airports
Russia Implements Temporary Air Traffic Restrictions at Three Airports Amid Ongoing Security Challenges
As of February 3, 2026, temporary flight restrictions have been introduced at three Russian airports, according to recent reports. These measures are part of an ongoing response to heightened security risks, including drone-related disruptions that have increasingly impacted civil aviation across the country. While the specific airports affected were not named in the latest announcement, such restrictions align with broader patterns of operational adjustments driven by cross-border drone activity and air defense protocols.
Since the start of 2025, Russian airports have faced an average of two daily shutdowns due to Ukrainian drone attacks, with over 217 closures recorded year-to-date—surpassing the total for all of 2023 and 2024 combined. These disruptions trigger the activation of "Operation Kovyor" (Carpet Plan), a protocol requiring aircraft to either land, remain grounded, or exit danger zones. The repeated implementation of such measures has imposed significant financial strain on airlines. Conservatively estimated losses for carriers this year alone exceed €11 million ($12 million), with additional costs arising from flight diversions, passenger compensation, and operational delays.
The financial impact extends beyond immediate disruptions. For instance, a single flight cancellation on a Boeing 737-800 aircraft can cost airlines between $180,000 and $276,000, depending on the route. In July 2025 alone, industry losses reached at least $240 million due to large-scale drone-related shutdowns. While airlines have absorbed these costs without immediate ticket price hikes—by factoring force majeure scenarios into pricing models—experts warn that sustained disruptions could eventually drive up fares.
Notably, restrictions are not uniformly applied. As of February 21, 2026, time-based limitations have been lifted at eight airports, reflecting dynamic adjustments to security protocols. However, western Russian cities—including Saratov, Volgograd, and Nizhny Novgorod—remain particularly vulnerable due to their proximity to industrial and military targets.
The situation underscores the complex interplay between security imperatives and economic stability in Russia's aviation sector. While temporary restrictions aim to mitigate risks, their cumulative impact on passenger convenience, airline profitability, and regional connectivity continues to evolve.
