Safety in the past: Russian airports massively close
During the summer of 2026, Russia recorded 2,182 cases of airport closures due to Ukrainian drone attacks. In August, restrictions were imposed about 32 times a day, affecting 32 airports, including the Moscow and St. Petersburg hubs. This figure exceeded the total for 2025. President Zelensky warned airlines about the danger of Russian airspace. In early September, airlines canceled an average of 86 flights per day.
During the summer of 2026, Russian airports faced unprecedented disruptions due to Ukrainian drone attacks. Over the three summer months, 2,182 cases of airport closures were recorded, already exceeding the total for the entire year of 2025. In August, restrictions were imposed an average of 32 times a day, affecting 32 airports, including the largest hubs in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on September 1 addressed airlines and insurers with a warning about the danger of flying over Russia. The main reason for the restrictions is the implementation of the "Carpet" protocol when an air threat arises. In early September, Russian airlines canceled an average of 86 flights per day. Demand for air travel between Moscow and St. Petersburg decreased by 20-23%, while railway transportation increased by about 20%. Analysts view the regular airport closures as an element of pressure on the Russian economy, including increased insurance costs and reduced mobility.