Flight operations resumed at Kazan and Nizhnekamsk airports on February 22, 2023, after temporary restrictions related to safety concerns were lifted.
According to Rosaviatsiya, the Russian Federal Air Transport Agency, all limitations on the acceptance and departure of aircraft were removed at 9:00 AM. These restrictions had been put in place earlier for the safety of civil aviation due to the potential threat of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) targeting the region.
The agency confirmed, "Crew members, air traffic controllers, and airport staff took all necessary measures to secure flight safety – this is the main priority," as reported by Artem Korenyako, spokesperson for Rosaviatsiya, who updated the situation on his Telegram channel.
During the period of these restrictions, which lasted approximately 2.5 hours, no aircraft were diverted to alternate aerodromes. Nonetheless, at least six flights had been unable to depart from Kazan, and three others were delayed on their way to the capital of Tatarstan. At Nizhnekamsk airport, two outbound flights and one inbound flight were similarly delayed, all linked to connections with Sheremetyevo International Airport.
Earlier, on February 19, Kazan and Nizhnekamsk airports faced another disruption when air defense systems intercepted and destroyed nine Ukrainian drones, several of which posed threats over Tatarstan. This led to heightened security measures, leading to the decision to temporarily halt flight operations.
Despite these incidents, local officials have emphasized preparedness and rapid response to any potential threats, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining high safety standards for air travel.
Passengers and airline companies are now working to resume normal operations following the lifting of restrictions, eager to return to routine travel plans.