Russia: Lingering flight disruptions likely after airspace temporarily closed over Moscow's Vnukovo and Domodedovo airports early Aug. 25

Event

Lingering flight disruptions are likely at Moscow-area airports after authorities temporarily closed the airspace over the capital's Vnukovo International (VKO) and Domodedovo (DME) airports early Aug. 25, suspending flight operations at both facilities. Officials have reportedly rerouted some flights to Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO). Authorities are also instructing aircraft to circumvent Kaluga, Tula, and Lipetsk oblasts amid reports of explosions in the skies above Kaluga and Tula oblasts. Russian authorities notably claimed that they had destroyed a missile fired by Ukraine over Kaluga Oblast early Aug. 25.

Any flight backlogs that have materialized amid the airspace closures at VKO and DME may add to residual delays and cancellations after flight operations resume. Additional airspace closures and flight suspensions cannot be ruled out over the short term.

Advice

Confirm flight reservations if scheduled to fly via Moscow-area airports Aug. 25. Do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed. If missile or drone activity is reported in your area, take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Adhere to all instructions issued by local officials.