Air Tanzania has announced the suspension of its flights to Russia following a planned risk assessment regarding operational conditions on this route. The airline emphasized that safety considerations take precedence over commercial interests in its decision.
Passengers who have already purchased tickets will either receive refunds or be able to rebook for free to other destinations.
This comes shortly after Air Tanzania initiated direct flights to Russia, a move that was announced on June 5 by Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.
Context
- On September 1, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned aviation and insurance companies about the dangers of flights over Russian airspace, highlighting the increasing risks posed by drones in the area.
- In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin labeled Zelensky’s remarks as a “claim of state terrorism.”
- On September 2, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) updated two manuals regarding the safety of civilian aircraft during military activities and flights near conflict zones, listing threats such as long-range weapon systems, drones, and air defense systems.
