Planes rerouted to backup runways due to the onslaught
Sochi Airport, a major hub in southern Russia, has returned to regular flight operations following a temporary suspension earlier this month due to drone attack threats. The airport resumed its services on August 11, 2025, after restrictions were imposed around August 8, causing disruptions including temporary shutdowns and evacuations.
On August 8, the airport faced restrictions twice during the day due to drone threat alerts, leading to flight delays and cancellations. The situation gradually improved after air defenses intercepted drones, but dozens of flights were delayed in the initial stages.
Similarly affected was Gelendzhik Airport, another nearby airport. However, it too resumed regular operations on August 11, mirroring the recovery at Sochi Airport.
Currently, Sochi Airport is operating normally with flight delays under 2%, indicating a return to standard scheduling and services. As of the report, 10 of the redirected aircraft have already returned to Sochi Airport.
Despite the resumption of normal operations, there are still some delays. As many as 25 flights are delayed by more than 2 hours at Sochi Airport. To manage the number of arrivals, the airport is handling 5 arrivals per hour to avoid a shortage of parking spaces.
In addition, 114 flights are planned for the rest of the day at Sochi Airport. However, 17 aircraft were redirected to alternate airfields as a result of the suspension. So far today, 77 flights have successfully departed from Sochi Airport.
The temporary suspension was a significant disruption, but with the airport back to regular operations, travellers can once again rely on Sochi Airport for their travel needs.
The temporary suspension at Sochi Airport due to drone threats has also impacted the lifestyle of travelers, causing delays and cancellations. As the airport recovers and resumes regular operations, general-news outlets are reporting on the improvements, including a reduction in flight delays to under 2%. Meanwhile, crime-and-justice authorities are investigating the drone attacks, as similar incidents have occurred at Gelendzhik Airport, creating questions about the safety and security of travel in the region.
