Dozens of flights delayed at Sochi airport after overnight restrictions

A total of 56 flights have been delayed at Sochi International Airport following the imposition of flight restrictions introduced overnight.

According to an official statement shared via the airport’s Telegram channel, 28 departures and 28 arrivals have been affected, Caliber.Az reports.

The Russian Federal Agency for Air Transport (Rosaviatsiya) announced the implementation of these restrictions earlier this morning, citing the need to enhance flight safety measures at the southern air hub. The specific reasons for the heightened safety protocols have not been disclosed at this time.

Airport authorities have confirmed that adjustments to scheduled departure times are ongoing, urging passengers to monitor flight information closely and remain in contact with their respective airlines for real-time updates.

Operational delays are expected to continue throughout the day as airport services work to minimize disruptions and resume normal scheduling as soon as conditions permit.

According to the Operational Headquarters of the Krasnodar Region, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was intercepted and shot down during the night of July 24 in Sochi’s Adler district. Debris from the downed UAV fell on Aviatsionnaya Street, resulting in the tragic death of one individual and leaving another seriously injured.

Despite the incident, the situation within Sochi International Airport’s terminal remains stable. All essential infrastructure— including food and beverage outlets, rest areas, drinking fountains, and dedicated facilities for mothers and children—continues to operate without disruption. Airline representatives and airport hospitality staff are actively assisting passengers affected by the delays. Travelers are urged to closely monitor flight information displayed on digital boards and terminal screens.

The ongoing delays stem from the temporary airspace restrictions imposed in response to the UAV incident. These restrictions have directly impacted operations at Sochi airport.

This is not the first disruption in recent days. On July 22, the airport experienced widespread delays and flight cancellations, which the press service at the time attributed to similar airspace limitations and the cascading effects of operational disruptions at airports within the Moscow aviation hub.

By Vafa Guliyeva