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Jun 16, 20261
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Moscow Airports Restrict Operations Following Drone Attacks

Rosaviation imposed temporary flight restrictions at four Moscow airports on June 16, 2026, to ensure safety following drone attacks on the city. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed the destruction of 20 drones that had targeted the capital.





Quick Facts
Who
Rosaviation
What
Temporary restrictions on aircraft takeoff and landing imposed
When
June 16, 2026
Where
Moscow
- Temporary restrictions on aircraft takeoff and landing imposed
- Airports transitioned to limited operations
- Drone attacks on Moscow
- 20 drones destroyed
- Rosaviation
Russia's aviation authority Rosaviation imposed temporary restrictions on aircraft takeoff and landing at four Moscow airports on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, citing the need to ensure flight safety. The affected airports include Vnukovo and Sheremetyevo, while Domodedovo and Zhukovsky had also suspended operations earlier. Sheremetyevo subsequently transitioned to handling flights on a case-by-case basis coordinated with relevant authorities due to airspace restrictions. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported that 20 unmanned drones that attacked the city had been destroyed. The restrictions, announced in the early morning hours, represent a precautionary measure taken in response to the drone activity targeting the Russian capital.
Topics
Why This Matters
This incident directly impacts travel and logistics across Moscow's airspace, affecting thousands of passengers and cargo operations. The coordinated drone attacks demonstrate persistent security threats to critical infrastructure, raising concerns about airport resilience and national air defense capabilities. The precautionary restrictions signal heightened security alert levels that could influence travel planning, business operations, and aviation industry stability in the region.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 16, 2026
WireSheremetyevo transitions to case-by-case flight operations due to airspace restrictions
Jun 16, 2026
WireMoscow Mayor Sobyanin reports destruction of 20 drones attacking the city
Jun 16, 2026
WireRosaviation announces temporary flight restrictions at Vnukovo and Sheremetyevo airports