Starting in June 2026, Russia plans to impose significant restrictions on civil aviation within the Moscow airspace, effectively closing it to most civilian flights. The announcement was made by the Interregional Public Organization of Pilots and Aircraft Owners (AOPA) through social media channels.
The AOPA stated that all civil aircraft operations at altitudes ranging from 0 to 5,100 meters will be banned in the Moscow air traffic zone. This prohibition will extend over a considerable area surrounding the capital.
Specific routes affected by these restrictions include those leading towards the Belarusian border, as well as areas near St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, and Samara. However, certain categories of flights will still be permitted. Regular and charter passenger flights to and from airports will continue, along with medical evacuation flights, aerial chemical work, infrastructure inspections, and operations under state contracts.
Details regarding the restrictions will be officially published by AOPA in the near future.
Russia's planned restrictions on civil aviation in Moscow airspace will begin in June 2026, affecting various flight operations while allowing some exceptions. The full scope of the regulations will be clarified in an upcoming official announcement.