Ukraine declares Russian airspace unsafe to ICAO

Ukraine has officially notified ICAO that Russian airspace is unsafe, a move that could pressure foreign airlines to reduce flights to Russia. This follows repeated drone attacks that have already disrupted Russian aviation. Since 2022, Russia has closed civilian airports in cities near Ukraine, including Anapa, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, Lipetsk, and Rostov-on-Don, plus all airports in occupied Crimea. Most traffic now relies on Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Sochi airports, with Krasnodar operating with frequent pauses. Foreign carriers account for 18.4% of all Russian air travel and control 47% of international routes. If even half of these companies leave, Russians would face reduced flight options. Ukraine appears to be using these official statements to pressure airlines legally, as any incident could lead to lawsuits.