Belarus: Flight disruptions possible at Minsk National Airport May 23 after passenger airplane makes unscheduled landing /update 1

Event

Flight disruptions are possible at Minsk National Airport (MSQ) after a Ryanair flight (FR4978) made an unscheduled landing the afternoon of May 23. Officials from Ryanair (FR) released a statement saying Belarussian air traffic control informed the flight crew of a potential security threat onboard, prompting the emergency landing in Minsk. A high-profile opposition activist was apparently arrested after the plane was grounded. After an approximately five-hour delay, the plane disembarked for its original destination.

Lingering disruptions are possible at MSQ through at least late May 23.

Advice

Confirm the status of flights at MSQ prior to departing for the facility. Follow security force directives if near the affected area.