MOSCOW. Dec 19 (Interfax) - The operation of Moscow's Vnukovo, Domodedovo and Zhukovsky airports has been temporarily restricted.
The restrictions at Vnukovo have been in effect since 11:54 a.m., an airport representative told reporters.
"For reasons beyond the airport's control, Vnukovo enacted temporary restrictions on departures and arrivals at 11:54 a.m. With the consent of the State Corporation for Air Traffic Management, Vnukovo is open to arrivals. Departures have been suspended," the representative said.
The State Corporation for Air Traffic Management imposed the restrictions to enhance flight safety, the Domodedovo airport press service told Interfax.
"While the restrictions are in effect, aircraft may be rerouted to alternate airports or continue the flight in the holding area and land at the destination airport after the restrictions are lifted. Six aircraft were redirected to alternate airports," the press service said.
A representative of the Zhukovsky airport also confirmed the temporary restrictions on using the airspace. "For now, this has no effect on the schedule," he told Interfax.
According to the Flightradar24 service, the Sheremetyevo airport continues to operate flights.
The Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday morning three Ukrainian drones were intercepted over the Bryansk region. Air defense downed a Ukrainian drone over the Kaluga region at 11:10 a.m. Air defenses have also repelled a drone attack in the Odintsovo municipal district, according to Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin.