Airport restrictions enforced at Sochi on July 25th
On July 25th, 2025, Sochi Airport faced two flight restrictions due to a large-scale drone attack targeting multiple airports in Russia, including Sochi. This incident led to the implementation of a "Carpet plan," a security measure under which flights and airspace were temporarily suspended to ensure safety following the unknown drone strikes.
The drone attacks caused delays of about 45 flights for arrivals and departures[1][3]. Additionally, a Boeing passenger plane en route from Novosibirsk to Sochi had to return to Novosibirsk due to technical reasons related to the sealing and pressurization systems, which likely contributed to operational disruptions at Sochi[2].
During the airspace closure caused by the drone attack, passengers at Sochi Airport waited calmly, with some sleeping on chairs while waiting for their flights[1]. The "Carpet plan" was lifted after hours of suspension on July 25, allowing flights to gradually continue. Other airports affected by drone strikes experienced delays of several hours, which suggests Sochi faced a similar timeframe[1].
The exact reason for these flight restrictions is not specified in the provided information. However, Rosaviatsiya provided operational updates via its Telegram channel regarding the flight restrictions[4].
In addition to Sochi, eight drones were shot down over the Azov Sea and Kuban on the night of July 25th[5]. These drone attacks caused damage to residential buildings in the Temryuk and Slaviansk districts, with windows being broken[6]. Debris also fell onto the railway station territory in Timashevsk due to Ukrainian drone attacks on the same night[7].
Despite these challenges, the terminal at Sochi Airport currently remains calm with no signs of panic or crowding[1]. The airport is currently forming schedules for the arrival and servicing of all aircraft, taking into account forced changes due to the flight restrictions[1]. It may take up to two days for Sochi Airport to fully stabilize its schedule after the flight restrictions[8].
[1] Rosbalt [2] Interfax [3] TASS [4] Rosaviatsiya Telegram channel [5] TASS [6] Interfax [7] Rosbalt [8] Interfax
- The airport restriction due to the drone attacks in Russia inspired a discussion about the impact of political instability on travel lifestyle, as thousands of passengers had to adjust their plans.
- As sports events approached in Sochi, the airspace closure added another layer of uncertainties, potentially affecting the preparation and attendance of athletes, spectators, and officials.
- The general-news outlets reported increased coverage on crime and justice, as authorities investigated the drone attacks, while additional measures were taken to secure the airports.
