Drone Attacks Prompt Temporary Flight Suspensions in Major Russian Cities
In the early hours of Tuesday, Ukrainian drone strikes caused a brief disruption to air traffic at key airports in Moscow and St. Petersburg, Russia's two largest cities. Authorities swiftly grounded flights across these hubs along with several others nationwide as a precautionary measure.
Swift Response from Russian Air Defenses
The Russian defence ministry announced that its forces intercepted and destroyed a staggering 102 Ukrainian drones during overnight operations. Nearly half of these interceptions occurred over the Bryansk region, which borders Ukraine, demonstrating the intensity of the activity near the front lines.
Additional drone takedowns were reported closer to Moscow and St. Petersburg with three drones neutralized over Moscow and two over the Leningrad region, which encompasses St. Petersburg.
Flight Suspensions and Restoration
Russia's civil aviation authority Rosaviatsia promptly halted operations at all four major airports serving Moscow along with Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg. The shutdown also extended to airports in nine other cities to guarantee passenger safety amid the drone incursions.
By Tuesday morning, flight services resumed in Moscow and various other locations; however, restrictions lingered at St. Petersburg’s airport as of 04:30 GMT. Local regional leaders monitoring the situation confirmed there were no reported damages from the drone attacks.
Security Measures and Reassurances
Authorities remain vigilant following these events, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to maintain public safety and minimize disruptions to commercial air travel. The rapid neutralization of hostile drones underscores Russia's preparedness and response capabilities in the face of escalating aerial threats.
While the strikes temporarily unsettled air traffic, quick containment allowed for a return to normalcy in affected areas shortly after, with officials continuing to assess and reinforce security protocols across vulnerable airspaces.
