Pulkovo Airport receives 19 diverted Moscow flights amid drone attack on Russian capital

Passengers from a Casablanca-Moscow flight were removed from their aircraft and transported by bus to the terminal building at Pulkovo Airport in Saint Petersburg, the airport's press service reported on 18 June 2026. This procedure was one of 19 such operations carried out for flights that had been diverted to the northern airport after restrictions were placed on airspace over Moscow.

The airport stated that its infrastructure is fully prepared to accommodate waiting passengers and that the decision to disembark was made by the airlines to minimise waiting time on board and ensure passenger comfort. Passengers currently in the terminal have been advised to listen carefully to audio announcements for real-time updates on their flights and further instructions. A railway ticket office is also operating at the terminal for those wishing to continue their journey by train.

Pulkovo Airport had received 25 flights as alternates due to the restrictions. As of midday on 18 June, 47 flights to and from Moscow had been cancelled at Pulkovo. The disruptions are linked to a massive drone attack on the Russian capital earlier that morning. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported that air defence forces destroyed approximately 180 drones, which he described as a record number in the past two years.

The situation at Pulkovo continues to develop, and airport authorities are providing updates through audio announcements and press releases. The airport remains in regular operation for other flights, while passengers of the affected flights await further instructions from their airlines.