Russians Gain Access to 35 Countries with Direct Flights this Summer

As the summer of 2026 approaches, Russian travelers are set to enjoy direct flights to 35 countries, according to the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR). While not all of these destinations are traditionally popular among tourists, several mass market routes are expected to draw significant interest. Turkey, Egypt, China, Vietnam, Thailand, and the UAE are among the most sought-after destinations with direct flights. Additionally, exotic getaways like the Maldives, Seychelles, Tanzania, Tunisia, Indonesia, and Georgia are gaining traction, with the latter experiencing a remarkable 40% increase in tourist traffic. The summer season is also expected to see a surge in travel to neighboring countries, including Belarus, Abkhazia, and Azerbaijan. With direct flights to these 35 countries, Russian travelers will have a wide range of options to choose from, whether they're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous exploration of new cultures. As the tourism industry continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how these new direct flights impact travel trends and preferences among Russian travelers.