Moscow airports paralysed by sudden airspace restrictions Flights rerouted en masse / VIDEO

On July 21, air travel in and out of Moscow faced significant disruption, as temporary flight restrictions triggered widespread delays and cancellations across the capital’s major airports.

Thus, at Sheremetyevo Airport, Russia’s busiest international hub, at least 75 flights were cancelled and 140 others delayed, according to multiple Russian Telegram channels tracking aviation movements, Caliber.Az reports.

Vnukovo Airport also reported cancellations and delays affecting 17 flights.

The cause of the restrictions on take-offs and landings remains unclear, with no official explanation issued by Russian aviation authorities.

The disruptions have forced a growing number of inbound flights to divert to alternative destinations, placing considerable strain on regional infrastructure.

St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo Airport has received no fewer than 22 redirected flights, operating under heightened capacity as it absorbs the overflow from Moscow. Airport authorities in both cities have activated contingency protocols, with all ground services moved to reinforced operational schedules.

The sudden interruption has left thousands of passengers stranded or rerouted, amid mounting concerns over the broader resilience of Russia’s civil aviation sector under stress.

Travellers have been advised to consult with airlines before heading to airports, as uncertainty persists over when regular operations will resume.

By Aghakazim Guliyev