Ukrainian drone attack disrupts Russia's Pulkovo Airport, over 90 flights affected

A nighttime drone attack attributed to Ukrainian forces has led to severe disruptions at Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg, Russia.

According to reports from Russian media, more than 90 flights have been delayed, while 40 additional flights have been cancelled due to the attack.

The attack has severely impacted both arriving and departing flights, causing widespread delays at one of Russia's busiest airports. Affected airlines, including Aeroflot and Pobeda, have adjusted their schedules and are allowing passengers with non-refundable tickets to return them.

In response to the disruptions, Pulkovo Airport has activated the “Carpet” plan, a measure designed to manage significant operational challenges. As part of the plan, check-in services for domestic flights have been limited, and temporary restrictions have been imposed on aircraft acceptance and release.

In addition to the disruptions at Pulkovo, Russian aviation authorities have introduced temporary restrictions at several other airports across the country, including those in Ivanovo, Pskov, Yaroslavl, and St. Petersburg. The restrictions are reportedly affecting flight schedules, particularly those operating to and from Kaliningrad, due to limitations on airspace in parts of the Leningrad Region.

Artem Korenyako, a spokesman for Russia’s aviation authority Rosaviatsiya, confirmed the measures via his Telegram channel, stating that the restrictions were necessary to ensure flight safety in the wake of the drone attack. Korenyako also indicated that these restrictions could lead to further adjustments in flight schedules, especially at Khrabrovo Airport in Kaliningrad.

The Russian aviation authority has emphasised that these restrictions are being enforced to safeguard flights and air traffic in the affected regions. Although Pulkovo Airport remains operational, the ongoing disruptions are expected to continue for some time, with potential further delays and cancellations.

As the situation develops, authorities are working to restore normal operations while ensuring that security protocols are fully observed.

By Tamilla Hasanova