30 Oct 2023 | 06:01 AM UTC
Russia: Officials confirm Makhachkala airport to remain closed until 02:59 Oct. 31 /update 2
Officials confirm Makhachkala airport in Dagestan, Russia, to remain closed until 02:59 Oct. 31 following protests.
Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya) has confirmed that Makhachkala Uytash Airport (MCX) in Makhachkala, Dagestan, will tentatively remain closed until at least 02:59 Oct. 31 after hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters stormed the facility Oct. 29. The unrest occurred following the arrival of a flight from Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport (TLV). Some of the demonstrators breached the airfield and surrounded the aircraft, prompting authorities to close the airport and divert flights to other locations as security forces worked to remove them from the area. Authorities reportedly cleared the protesters from the facility by 22:20 the same day. The incident resulted in more than 20 injuries, including police officers and civilians.
Flight disruptions will impact MCX until at least early Oct. 31; authorities may extend, rescind, or modify suspension on short notice as they stated the airport will only reopen after security forces inspect and clear the facility and the surrounding areas. Additional protest-related flight disruptions remain possible at MCX over the coming days.
Confirm flight reservations if scheduled to travel via MCX in the coming days. Do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed. Avoid any demonstrations that materialize as a precaution. If violence breaks out, leave the area and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Consider refraining from discussing sensitive topics, including the Israel-Hamas war, in public settings and with unfamiliar persons. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
