News outlets reported significant waits at Russia’s major hubs as airport authorities directed media inquiries to the border service for updates on passport control times. A spokesperson for the Sheremetyevo Airport press service declined to comment on earlier reports of extended queues, advising reporters to reach out to the Federal Security Service Border Service for current status. This exchange reflected a pattern where official channels point travelers and journalists toward specialized border authorities when passport control operations are in focus.
On the night of August 20, Telegram channel Baza reported scenes of crowded queues at Sheremetyevo Airport’s passport control area. Observers noted that a limited number of service windows contributed to bottlenecks, with some travelers who had arrived from Turkey reportedly waiting as long as three hours. The reports highlighted families with children in line, underscoring the strain experienced by travelers during peak periods. Those in transit and arriving passengers alike faced the prospect of delays that can ripple into onward connections and missed schedules. In response, the airport’s communications appear to emphasize the need to obtain official clearance and latest updates from border control authorities rather than from the airport’s own press office.
This incident at Sheremetyevo sits alongside other recent travel disruptions in Russia. Earlier in the year, Ekaterinburg Koltsovo Airport drew attention after a crowded scene on an escalator prompted a brief disturbance, described in local chatter and coverage as a crush that was amplified by the festive atmosphere around a standing ovation at the time of transfer. The juxtaposition of these events reflects ongoing challenges related to passenger flow management at high-volume hubs, especially when security checkpoints and immigration formalities are involved. Travel security officials often remind passengers to allow extra time for processing, particularly when arriving from international destinations or during holidays and peak travel windows. Reports suggest that faster throughput depends on window availability, staff rotations, and the efficiency of border-control procedures, all of which influence overall passenger experience at busy gateways.
For travelers planning trips through these airports, practical guidance remains essential. Passengers are encouraged to verify current passport-control wait times with the border service or airport authorities before departure, especially when connecting to domestic or international flights. Arriving with sufficient lead time can ease stress and reduce the likelihood of missed connections. Families and travelers with special needs might consider arriving earlier and seeking assistance from airport staff to navigate queues more smoothly. While airport authorities manage throughput, travelers should stay informed about any advisories or changes in entry requirements issued by border agencies, and be prepared for potential delays during periods of elevated passenger traffic. When possible, using expedited services, if available, or selecting arrival times outside peak periods may help minimize wait times. Citations of border-service advisories are provided by attribution from official channels to ensure accuracy.