Following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, safety concerns led to the closure of 11 airports across southern and central Russia, including Gelendzhik Airport. The decision to ground flights was initially framed as a precautionary measure to ensure operational safety amid the geopolitical tensions. However, the closure of these airports, which are key transportation hubs, significantly impacted local economies and travel infrastructure in the region.
The announcement that Gelendzhik Airport will reopen after over three years of inactivity signals a potential shift in Russia’s approach to managing its air infrastructure post-invasion. The resumption of flight operations is expected to bring renewed economic activity to the area, although the long-term implications of the closure and its impact on the region’s development remain to be seen. Authorities have not provided specific details on the timeline for the airport’s reopening, but the move is seen as part of broader efforts to restore normalcy in the affected regions.