Cyberattack Grounds Aeroflot Flights as Hackers Claim Responsibility

Major Disruption at Russia's Flag Carrier

Aeroflot canceled over 40 flights today following a severe cyberattack on its information systems. The Russian airline confirmed disruptions primarily affected domestic routes along with services to Belarus and Armenia. Company representatives stated they're working to restore operations.

Hackers Claim Political Motive

Pro-Ukrainian hacker group Silent Crow and Belarusian collective Cyberpartisans BY jointly claimed responsibility. In a statement declaring "Glory to Ukraine! Long live Belarus," they linked the attack to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Silent Crow previously breached Russian real estate databases in January 2025, leaking 82,000 citizen records.

Airport Chaos Amid Drone Campaign

The incident exacerbates existing travel disruptions around Moscow airports caused by Ukrainian drone strikes. While Russian air defenses intercept most drones, these attacks systematically target civilian infrastructure to increase war awareness among Russians. Aviation authorities report significant passenger delays and cancellations.

Aeroflot's Sanctions Challenge

Western sanctions have drastically reduced Aeroflot's international routes since 2022. Despite operating at just 60% of pre-war capacity, the carrier transported 53 million passengers in 2024, maintaining its position among the world's top 20 airlines by passenger volume.