Numerous Sochi airport departures encounter delays, affecting over 30 flights
Sochi Airport in Krasnodar, Russia, is currently operating in an enhanced mode following multiple drone attacks in the region, causing significant disruptions to flight schedules.
Despite the challenges, airport and airline services are working together to restore the schedule promptly. The terminals remain calm, and passengers are being served in accordance with the Federal Aviation Rules of Russia.
According to the airport's press service, over 80 flights have already departed from Sochi Airport since the restrictions were lifted. However, there is a delay of 35 flights exceeding two hours due to the security-related operational restrictions following the drone attacks.
The drone attacks caused the airport to impose temporary closures and limited airspace availability on several days, leading to considerable delays and cancellations. On August 8-9, 2025, Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency enforced airspace restrictions twice per day at Sochi Airport due to drone threats, causing delays and cancellations. The Russian Defense Ministry reported that air defenses had shot down multiple drones over Krasnodar Krai, contributing to the precautionary measures affecting airport operations.
By August 9, dozens of flights were delayed, and one was canceled, with delays lasting several hours. Although Sochi Airport returned to near-normal operation by August 11, with delays exceeding two hours limited to about 1-2% of flights, the prior days' disruptions explain the recent large-scale delays affecting dozens of flights.
It is important to note that the primary cause of the extensive flight delays at Sochi Airport was the drone attack threats and the consequent airspace security restrictions imposed by Russian authorities.
Despite the ongoing delays, no new reports of flight delays or cancellations have been made. Incoming flights are being served as they arrive, and outgoing flights are being handled based on their sequence and the readiness of the aircraft.
The airport's press service continues to provide updates on the current situation, and the number of flights that have departed from Sochi Airport since the restrictions were lifted continues to increase.
- Despite the drone attacks causing significant disruptions to the flight schedules, general-news updates suggest that Sochi Airport is currently working diligently to restore its operation, with airport services cooperating to promptly address the issue.
- In addition to the ongoing delays faced by Sochi Airport due to the aftermath of the drone attacks, weather conditions might also impact the flight schedules, making it important for passengers to stay informed about the latest general-news and weather reports.
