Russian airspace closures escalate, aircraft diverting to exit

OPS ALERT – UUZZ/RUSSIA

A closing of Russian airspace to EU operators appears extremely likely in the coming hours.

In the last 24 hours, eight countries have denied Russian aircraft entry (UK, Poland, etc.). Each received a direct response by Russian NOTAM banning them in retaliation. Reports tonight from Germany indicate that the EU will close its airspace entirely as a block decision. Russia will respond.

Major carriers (KLM, DLH) have this evening turned aircraft around in flight to exit Russian airspace in anticipation. KLM confirms no operations into Russian airspace for at least 1 week.

Closures so far have been specific to scheduled operators but impact likely to spread. So far no closures directly targeting US operators, but avoiding Russian airspace is sensible given the uncertainty.

More on this in the Flight Ops channel

For the latest on this, head to the #Flight Ops channel on OPSGROUP Slack. We’ve just posted a copy of this alert there, and you can discuss and share updates on this specific topic with other members. The team will also post updates and further info there as we get news.

If you know more about this situation, please share an update in the channel, or email the team. Thank you!

Russian airspace closures escalate, aircraft diverting to exit