The pause in air travel across the southern and central regions of Russia has been extended to June 12 at 03:45 Moscow time, according to an official update from Rosaviatsiya. This latest extension follows an earlier announcement that kept the restrictions in place through June 6, and it confirms a continued pause on scheduled flights at the designated airports during the extended window.
During this period, departures and arrivals at Anapa, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Gelendzhik, Krasnodar, Kursk, Lipetsk, Rostov-on-Don, Simferopol, and Elista airports will be canceled or significantly limited. Travelers should expect disruptions at these hubs and plan accordingly. The guidance from authorities emphasizes the use of alternative airports to minimize travel interruptions for passenger services.
To accommodate movement when traditional routes are unavailable, airlines are advised to divert passenger traffic to other entry points. Specifically, alternatives include Sochi airport, Volgograd, Mineralnye Vody, Stavropol, and Moscow, where operations may continue with adjusted schedules and capacity. Consumers planning trips should verify the latest advisories from their carriers and monitor airport status as the situation develops throughout the extended period.
Meanwhile, other Russian airports are reported to continue operating under normal conditions, with standard schedules in effect at non-restricted locations. The broader context behind these measures traces back to military operations that began on February 24, which led to a reevaluation of airspace and flight paths across several southern cities. In response to the evolving circumstances, officials initially restricted flights through March 2, and subsequently expanded the scope of limitations as needed to maintain safety and security for air travel in the affected regions.
In parallel with the flight disruptions, the railway network responded to the reduced air connectivity. Russian Railways announced the introduction of additional train services to bridge gaps created by air restrictions, offering travelers alternative means of reaching key destinations when flying was not feasible. This coordinated approach reflects an effort to maintain mobility for residents, visitors, and essential operations despite the challenging travel environment.