Russia: Authorities temporarily suspend flights at Moscow area airports Dec. 26

Authorities have temporarily suspended flights at all four Moscow area airports, namely Domodedovo, (DME), Vnukovo (VKO), Zhukovsky (ZIA), and Sheremetyevo (SVO), as well as Kaluga Airport (KLF), located 160 km (100 miles) southwest of the city Dec. 26. Aviation authorities have not confirmed the reason for the closure beyond stating that, "Aircraft crews, air traffic controllers and airport services are taking all necessary measures to ensure flight safety."

Flight delays and cancellations are likely at the impacted facilities in the coming hours. Lingering disruptions are possible after regular flights resume as airlines work to clear backlogs. Heightened security and localized ground transport and business disruptions are possible as security forces respond to any threats, real or purported.