Russian airspace closed for 20 hours: 'Intervention' crisis between Russian authorities and THY pilots
Russian airspace remained closed for approximately 20 hours over the last 24 hours due to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) allegedly launched by Ukraine toward Russia. This decision, taken for security reasons, effectively paralyzed civil aviation. With 90% of flights canceled, many passengers were left stranded at airports for hours.
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In St. Petersburg, one of the centers of the crisis, Russian authorities demanded that the technical sections of some international aircraft be dismantled for inspection.
The request was specifically rejected by Turkish Airlines (THY) pilots.
Refusing to back down due to security and operational reasons, the THY crew returned the aircraft to Istanbul just as it had arrived.
It was also reported that after some aircraft landed in Russia, passengers were not allowed to disembark. It is stated that detailed searches for technical equipment that could be used in bomb-making were conducted, particularly on aircraft belonging to non-Russian airlines.
The intensive security measures implemented at airports led to hours of waiting and serious disruptions. Despite the reactions of passengers and airline companies, it is observed that Russian authorities are continuing to increase security measures.
While no official statement has been made by Russian authorities regarding the incident, it is noted that the impact of the crisis on civil aviation may continue in the coming days.
A TOTAL OF 485 FLIGHTS WERE CANCELED
According to data from Russia's federal air transport agency and the Ministry of Transport, a total of 485 flights were canceled between Saturday and Monday, 88 flights were diverted to other airports, and 1,900 flights experienced delays.
Due to the disruptions, airline companies had to refund approximately 43 thousand tickets, while 94 thousand passengers were placed in hotels. The total cost of food and beverage services provided to passengers reached 354 thousand rubles (approximately 3 thousand 800 euros).
Dozens of people shared the problematic moments they experienced on their social media accounts. Traveling to Russia can currently be a very stressful journey. It is unclear when one might arrive or whether one will be allowed to disembark from the plane. There is also a risk of being stuck at the airport for days upon return.
Airports are closed for half a day due to drone attacks. Russians, experiencing drone anxiety, have raised security measures to the maximum.