Russia imposes sudden flight restrictions in southwest region

Russia’s Federal Air Transport Agency on Friday announced unexpected temporary restrictions on flight operations at several airports in the country’s southwest, including the key Volgograd International Airport.

According to the official statement, the move is a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring the safety of civil aviation in the region.

Ensuring civil aviation safety

In a brief press release, the agency said the decision was taken “to ensure the safety of civil aircraft and passengers,” confirming that temporary restrictions have been placed on both incoming and outgoing flights.

While the statement did not specify the nature of the security threats prompting the decision, such restrictions are typically linked to increased military activity or the presence of drones, which pose risks to civilian air traffic.

Uncertainty over resumption

The agency stressed that the restrictions will remain in effect until further notice, with normal flight operations to resume once the security risks are resolved.

“The resumption of flights will be announced once the reasons related to aviation safety are no longer present,” the statement read.

The sudden move has left thousands of travelers waiting for updates from authorities, as the affected airports play a vital role in connecting southern regions with Moscow and other major Russian cities.