Russia is facing severe travel disruptions as heavy snow and dense mist wreak havoc on air travel, leading to over forty flight cancellations across Sheremetyevo, Pulkovo, and Vnukovo airports. Major airlines, including Qatar Airways, China Southern, Oman Air, Aeroflot, Etihad, and flydubai, have been forced to ground flights, stranding passengers and causing widespread delays. The extreme weather has crippled operations at some of Russia’s busiest airports, leaving travelers frustrated and uncertain about their schedules. As conditions remain challenging, authorities are urging passengers to check flight updates and prepare for further disruptions.

Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) Hit Hard by Snow

Sheremetyevo, Moscow’s busiest airport, bore the brunt of today’s disruptions, with 22 flight cancellations and 8 delays. The snowstorm forced airlines to ground flights, leaving passengers stranded.

• Rossiya Airlines suffered the most cancellations, with 19 flights scrapped, accounting for 22% of its scheduled operations.
• Qatar Airways saw 50% of its flights canceled, severely affecting international connections.
• Oman Air experienced 100% delays, causing significant travel uncertainty for passengers flying to the Middle East.

With worsening weather conditions, authorities have urged travelers to check their flight status before heading to the airport.

Pulkovo Airport (LED) Struggles with Heavy Mist

Saint Petersburg’s Pulkovo Airport faced significant delays and cancellations due to dense mist, making takeoffs and landings challenging. The airport recorded 20 flight cancellations and 12 delays throughout the day.

• Rossiya Airlines was again the hardest hit, with 14% of its flights canceled and 4% delayed.
• Etihad Airways saw 100% of its flights delayed, impacting passengers connecting to the UAE and beyond.
• S7 Airlines and Ural Airlines also experienced moderate delays, affecting domestic travel.

With visibility concerns persisting, passengers are advised to prepare for potential delays and rebookings.

Vnukovo International Airport (VKO) Faces Mist-Related Disruptions

Moscow’s Vnukovo Airport also suffered disruptions due to mist, though on a smaller scale than Sheremetyevo and Pulkovo. The airport reported 7 cancellations and 8 delays, primarily affecting Rossiya Airlines flights.

• Rossiya Airlines canceled 30% of its scheduled flights, making it the most affected carrier.
• FlyDubai and Azerbaijan Airlines reported delays, impacting international travel.
• UTair, Azur Air, and Uzbekistan Airways also experienced disruptions.

What This Means for Travelers

With winter conditions worsening, travelers should be prepared for sudden schedule changes. Authorities recommend:

• Checking flight status regularly via airline websites or airport notifications.
• Arriving early at the airport to accommodate unexpected delays.
• Having a backup plan in case of cancellations, including rebooking options and travel insurance.

Final Thoughts

Today’s weather-related disruptions serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of winter travel in Russia. As snowfall and mist continue to impact flight schedules, travelers must stay informed and flexible to minimize inconvenience.

For those with upcoming flights from Sheremetyevo, Pulkovo, or Vnukovo, keeping an eye on weather updates and airline notifications will be crucial in navigating potential delays or cancellations.

Stay safe, stay warm, and stay informed!

The post Russia Travel Crippled as New Snow and Mist Cause Over Forty Flight Cancellations at Sheremetyevo, Pulkovo and Vnukovo Airports Impacting Qatar, China Southern, Oman Air, Aeroflot, Etihad and flydubai appeared first on Travel And Tour World.