Temporary restrictions were imposed at Moscow's Vnukovo and Domodedovo airports on May 6, 2025, due to a drone attack aimed at the capital. This action was confirmed by the Russian aviation authority, Rosaviatsiya, and was echoed by Moscow's mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, who noted that the city's air defense forces successfully repelled the drone threat.
On the evening of the same day, the situation escalated as three major airports—Vnukovo, Domodedovo, and Zhukovsky—suspended all incoming and outgoing flights starting at 18:19 Moscow time. Reports indicated that air defense systems shot down three Ukrainian drones that were approaching Moscow.
Emergency services quickly mobilized to the crash sites to assess and manage the aftermath of the drone interceptions. Passengers at Domodedovo airport, many of whom were en route to various destinations, found themselves stuck as their flights were canceled or redirected. For instance, a Ural Airlines flight scheduled to depart for Yekaterinburg at 17:45 local time was grounded due to the unfolding crisis.
One passenger recounted the tense moments before the flight's cancellation, stating, "The plane began to taxi, and the captain said that the flight would take about three hours, as it would be necessary to fly around the zone closed for flights due to the announced Cover plan. We didn’t even make it to the runway before the flight was canceled, and the airport was closed. Right now, everything is silent." Despite the stressful circumstances, the atmosphere at the airport remained calm, with passengers being provided water and meal vouchers at nearby cafes.
According to FlightRadar24, planes could be seen circling over Moscow, avoiding the danger zone and primarily landing at Sheremetyevo airport, which remained operational during the crisis. The mayor reported that five drones were destroyed on the evening of May 6, and he emphasized that air defense forces had been actively responding to threats throughout the day.
Passengers expressed a mix of frustration and understanding regarding the situation. Many were left waiting for more than four hours, observing the stillness of the airport as they hoped for updates on their flights. One passenger noted, "People are mostly sitting on benches, some in restaurants. There’s no panic; everyone is just waiting, but planes are standing still in the dark, and the sky is empty."
The drone attacks and subsequent airport closures highlight the ongoing tensions and security challenges faced by Moscow amid the current geopolitical climate. The swift response from air defense forces reflects a heightened state of alert as authorities work to ensure the safety of both residents and travelers.
As the situation continues to develop, officials are expected to provide further updates regarding air travel and security measures in place at Moscow's airports. The response from the aviation authority and local government will be critical in managing the fallout from this incident and restoring normal operations.
In the meantime, travelers are advised to stay informed through official channels and to expect potential delays and changes to their itineraries as the situation unfolds. The safety of passengers and residents remains the top priority for local authorities, who are navigating the complexities of air traffic control amid ongoing threats.
