Moscow Snowfall Forces Major Airport to Cut Flights

MOSCOW, Feb 18 – A severe snowstorm sweeping across the capital on Thursday is set to cause significant disruption to air travel, Russia's Ministry of Transport announced. The government body confirmed that Sheremetyevo International Airport will limit takeoff and landing operations, a move that will directly impact the schedule of its primary carrier, Aeroflot.

Officials stated the heavy snowfall will lead to adjustments in both inbound and outbound flight schedules, with cancellations a strong possibility. The decision to restrict operations at Sheremetyevo, they explained, is based on recent operational experience from a similar weather event in January.

The restrictions are necessary to allow crews time to clear accumulated snow from runways and taxiways, and to perform required de-icing procedures on aircraft. The ministry is urging all passengers with travel plans to monitor real-time flight information on airport display boards and airline websites.

Travelers are also advised to consider alternative transport options to reach their final destination and to evaluate whether checking luggage is essential for their journey, as delays are expected to continue throughout the day.