Due to the Spread of COVID-19... Russia Completely Suspends International Flights

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] Russia will completely suspend international flights starting from the 27th in response to the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

On the 26th (local time), the Russian government instructed the Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya) under its jurisdiction to "completely suspend the operation of regular routes and charter flights with foreign countries from 0:00 on the 27th." This is a significant strengthening of the previously implemented restrictions on international flights.

However, exceptions were made only for flights to repatriate Russians staying abroad. The government did not disclose when the full suspension of flights will end.

Rosaviatsiya had already suspended all international passenger flights except for regular flights connecting the Russian capital Moscow with the capitals of 146 countries since the 23rd. But with this new measure, flights to foreign capitals will be completely blocked.

Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin also ordered that all returning Russians be able to undergo COVID-19 testing immediately upon arrival at the airport.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.