Pskov Airport resumed full operations after a drone attack attributed to Ukrainian forces. The information was reported by the Rosaviatsiya Telegram channel and confirmed by official sources. The aviation ministry stated that Pskov Airport is back in operation without restrictions starting from 07:00 Moscow time on August 31, 2023, with all airport services and duties of the United Air Traffic Organization functioning normally.
Earlier, Mikhail Vedernikov, the governor of the Pskov region, announced that the impact of the drone attack in the regional center had been neutralized and that there were no casualties. The night of August 30 saw Ukrainian drones strike five regions in central Russia and the Pskov region. The attack caused a fire at the Pskov airport, resulting in damage to a number of Il-76 military transport aircraft, while in other instances air defense forces repelled the drones and prevented further damage.
Vedernikov later reported that the drone attack on Pskov airport had been repelled by Russian forces, with the Ministry of Defense asserting effective defense of the airfield. In the aftermath of the incident, discussions about enhanced drone countermeasures and security measures continued as authorities assessed the overall impact on regional infrastructure.
The situation also included efforts to bolster airfield safety through new drone suppression systems that were under consideration or implementation as part of ongoing security enhancements across Russian facilities. These events occur as authorities review aviation safety protocols and assess the resilience of critical infrastructure in the face of evolving aerial threats. The latest updates indicate a continued emphasis on rapid response capabilities, improved surveillance, and coordinated defense measures to protect airports and associated transport networks in the region. The incident has prompted a broader dialogue about national security strategies and the integration of advanced counter-drone technology across major transport hubs in the area.
Citations: Rosaviatsiya Telegram channel for initial confirmation; official statements from regional authorities and the Ministry of Defense for operational details and defense claims. In Canada and the United States, aviation safety professionals monitor similar risk factors and emphasize robust airspace protection, rapid incident reporting, and clear lines of command during security events. The Pskov case underscores the importance of cross-sector collaboration and investment in drone defense systems as part of resilient national infrastructure.
Overall, authorities described a clarified recovery timeline and a secure resumption of services at Pskov Airport. Ongoing assessments of drone countermeasures, airfield security improvements, and infrastructure resilience continue, with authorities signaling readiness to adapt strategies as needed to prevent future disruptions.