On October 23, 2026, Moscow experienced another massive drone attack, leading to the paralysis of air traffic in the capital. All four airports — Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo, Domodedovo, and Zhukovsky — halted operations, with over 340 flights canceled or delayed.
Situation at Airports
Due to the threat of drone attacks, Rosaviatsiya has restricted the acceptance and departure of aircraft. Passengers stranded at the airports faced significant inconveniences:
- Over 340 flights were canceled or delayed.
- Passengers were stuck at the airports, and airlines were changing schedules.
- Some aircraft were redirected to alternate airfields.
In Sheremetyevo, an air raid alert was declared, and people were evacuated to safe locations, warned of a prolonged wait.
Evacuation of Government Institutions
In Moscow-City, an evacuation of individuals from the government tower IQ-Quarter is also taking place, where the offices of the Ministry of Economic Development, the Ministry of Industry, and the Ministry of Digital Development are located. The evacuation was prompted by threats of drone attacks.
Actions of Authorities and Air Defense
The Mayor of Moscow Sergei Sobyanin reported that at least 17 drones were shot down on the approaches to the capital. According to various reports, drones were spotted over Podmoskovye, and a threat was declared in such localities as Reutov, Balašikha, Luberets, Zheleznodorozhny, and the Moscow district of Kapotnya.
This attack marks the second major shutdown of Moscow's airports in a week. During the previous attack, air traffic was disrupted for 5-7 hours, with over 350 flights canceled or delayed.