A large-scale drone attack on Moscow and the surrounding Moscow region caused major disruption to air travel, with more than 400 flights reportedly delayed. Temporary restrictions were imposed on aircraft arrivals and departures as Russian authorities responded to the reported drone activity around the capital.
The disruption affected Moscow’s four major airports – Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo, Domodedovo and Zhukovsky. Sheremetyevo, one of Russia’s busiest airports, recorded a significant number of delayed arrivals and departures. Several flights were also cancelled, while some aircraft were diverted to alternative airports in other Russian cities.
Vnukovo International Airport also experienced substantial disruption, with multiple flights delayed or cancelled. Domodedovo and Zhukovsky airports were affected as well, although the scale of disruption varied between the facilities. Airlines were forced to adjust schedules and redirect some Moscow-bound aircraft while temporary aviation restrictions remained in place.
The airport disruption came amid reports of an extensive drone attack targeting Moscow and the wider Moscow region. Russian authorities said air-defence systems had intercepted a large number of drones approaching the capital. Authorities also reported damage to infrastructure and residential areas in parts of the Moscow region.
As the temporary restrictions were lifted, airlines began working to restore normal schedules. However, the earlier disruptions continued to affect passengers as delayed and diverted aircraft had to be accommodated and flight schedules reorganised.
The incident demonstrates the wider impact that drone warfare can have on civilian aviation. Even when airports themselves are not directly hit, security restrictions around airspace can lead to widespread delays, cancellations and diversions. For passengers, such incidents can result in missed connections, extended waiting times and changes to planned travel.
The disruption at Moscow’s airports comes amid continuing tensions linked to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where drones have increasingly been used to target areas far from the frontline.