Russia: Air traffic disruptions May 4-9

Event

Due to air traffic restrictions implemented during Victory Day parades as well as during parade rehearsals, operations at airports in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Yekaterinburg will face disruptions between Thursday, May 4, and Tuesday, May 9.

In the Moscow region on May 4, 7, and 9, there will be flight delays at Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) from 10:20 to 11:00 (local time), at Vnukovo International Airport (VKO) from 10:30 to 11:10, and at Domodedovo (DME), Ramenskoye-Zhukovsky (ZIA), and Ostafyevo (OSF) airports from 10:40 to 11:10.

In Saint Petersburg, minor delays can be expected at Pulkovo International Airport (LED) on the same days.

At Yekaterinburg’s Koltsovo Airport (SVX), disruptions are anticipated on May 6 and 7 from 10:10 to 10:50 and again from 14:30 to 15:10. On May 9, the airport will suspend operations from 10:10 to 10:50.

On a related note, localized traffic disruptions and increased security measures are to be anticipated in major cities during Victory Day parades, being held on May 9. In Moscow, the parade route will pass through Red Square.

Context

Victory Day commemorates the victory of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany in 1945 and is traditionally celebrated with parades in major Russian cities.

This year’s parades will take place amid a tense sociopolitical context as major anti-government demonstrations have been held in recent days. Russia's primary opposition leader, Alexeï Navalny, and hundreds of other demonstrators were arrested during anti-corruption protests that brought tens of thousands of people to the streets of cities across Russia on March 26. The demonstrations were the largest coordinated protests in Russia since 2012. Police and military security personnel responded to the protests in Moscow and elsewhere with barricades and tear gas; some violent clashes between police and protestors were reported in the capital. Additional protests have occurred since. Furthermore, on April 27, Navalny was attacked outside of the offices of the Anti-Corruption Fund (FBK).

Advice

Individuals present in Russia are advised to confirm the status of their flights prior to departure for the airport and to anticipate transportation disruptions in the vicinity of parade routes. Travelers should be aware that large public gatherings have been targeted by terrorist attacks in Europe in recent years and as such should remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior or objects to the relevant authorities.