Ukraine's president has warned airlines against using Russian airspace as drone operations increase, while Russia threatens to escalate its attacks on Ukraine.
Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, has warned airlines that Russian airspace is becoming increasingly dangerous due to the escalation of drone operations. He urged airlines to avoid Russian airspace, particularly near major cities such as Moscow and St Petersburg, stating that the Russian sky is becoming "completely dangerous." Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine does not target civilian aircraft but warned that the scale of drone activity in Russian airspace could lead to unintended incidents. He directed the warning specifically to airlines that continue to operate flights to Russian airports.
Zelensky informed the United Nations and the International Civil Aviation Organization of the risks to civilian aviation. Meanwhile, Russia has indicated it will intensify its attacks on Ukraine. Most Western commercial airlines avoid Russian airspace due to the ongoing conflict, but some carriers from countries like China and Turkey continue to use it. Airlines that operate through Russian airspace, including Qatar Airways and FlyDubai, have stated they are monitoring the situation closely and adjusting flight plans as necessary. Some airlines, such as Turkish Pegasus, have temporarily suspended flights to Russia, citing operational reasons.
Why it matters
The warning affects airlines that still operate flights through Russian airspace, potentially altering global aviation routes.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Airlines' responses to the warning and any changes in flight routes or operations through Russian airspace.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.