Russian authorities temporarily suspended operations at 13 airports across the south of the country after a reported Ukrainian drone strike damaged an administrative building linked to air traffic management in Rostov-on-Don.

According to Russia’s Federal Air Transport Agency, the operational режим of the regional air traffic control centre responsible for managing flights across southern Russia was adjusted after unmanned aerial vehicles struck the administrative building of the “Aeronavigation of Southern Russia” branch.

Air Traffic Operations Adjusted After Strike

Officials stated that all personnel were safe and that specialists were analysing the operational condition of the equipment following the incident.

The Russian Transport Ministry and Rosaviatsia are now working with airlines and airports to adjust schedules and minimise disruption to passengers.

13 Airports Temporarily Suspended

Authorities confirmed the temporary suspension of operations at airports in Astrakhan, Vladikavkaz, Volgograd, Gelendzhik, Grozny, Krasnodar, Makhachkala, Magas, Mineralnye Vody, Nalchik, Sochi, Stavropol and Elista.

The restrictions affect a large portion of Russia’s southern aviation network, including several popular domestic tourism destinations along the Black Sea and in the North Caucasus region.

Growing Impact On Russian Aviation

Drone attacks and temporary airport closures have increasingly affected aviation operations in Russia since the start of the full-scale war in Ukraine. Authorities regularly impose temporary flight restrictions following reports of aerial threats or attacks on infrastructure.

No information was immediately released regarding the scale of damage to the facility in Rostov-on-Don or how long airport restrictions would remain in place.

Airlines are expected to continue adjusting schedules as authorities assess operational safety across the region.