Ukraine has formally alerted the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) that Russian airspace is unsafe for civilian flights due to heightened military activity. This warning, issued by Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, underscores the risks that have led to several aviation incidents in recent years. Ukraine’s notification aims to prevent unintended incidents, urging airlines and governments to exercise caution despite Russia’s lack of communication regarding these threats.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy echoed these concerns, stating that the expansion of Ukraine’s long-range drone operations has made Russian airspace increasingly perilous. He cautioned airlines, insurers, and businesses that continue to use Russian airports, asserting that the risks are no longer negligible. Zelenskyy indicated that the consequences of the ongoing conflict are now affecting Russian territory, suggesting that the airspace may soon be effectively closed to civilian traffic.
The warning has already had immediate repercussions, with Turkish low-cost carrier Pegasus Airlines cancelling multiple flights to and from Moscow due to security concerns. While some airlines, like Turkish Airlines, continue operations, the situation highlights a growing reluctance among carriers to risk flying over Russian airspace, which has historically been a significant route for international traffic.
As Ukraine’s airspace remains closed to civilian aviation since the onset of the full-scale invasion in February 2022, the implications of this warning could lead to further disruptions in air travel. The ongoing conflict and the associated risks are reshaping flight routes and operational decisions for airlines, potentially leading to long-term changes in international aviation patterns.
Source: Euronews
