The European Commission has banned 21 Russian airlines, including Aeroflot, over serious safety concerns, following the forced re-registration of foreign-owned aircraft in Russia. The EU’s executive arm stated that these airlines do not meet international safety standards, announcing their operational bans or restrictions within the 27-nation bloc.

The European Commission banned the following Russian airlines:

Aeroflot
Alrosa Air Company
Aurora Airlines
Aviastar-TU
Ikar
Iraero Airlines
Izhavia
Nord Wind
Nordstar Airlines
Pobeda Airlines
Rossiya Airlines
Rusjet
Rusline
Siberia Airlines
Smartavia Airlines
Ural Airlines
Utair Aviation
Uvt Aero
Yakutia
Yakutia
Yamal Airlines

After the addition of these 21 Russian airlines, the EU black list has now grown to a total of 117 airline companies from around the world, including airlines from Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, North Korea, Nepal, and Sudan.

Commercial travel routes between Russia and Europe have been impacted by measures taken in response to military action in Ukraine. A number of Russian airports are now closed to the public. The train service between St Petersburg and Helsinki is suspended. Bus services to Finland are operating. If you’re planning to depart Russia, confirm with your transport operator that services are still operating. There are reports of non-Russian credit and debit cards being declined in Russia.

Be prepared with alternate means of payment should your cards be declined. If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You’re responsible for your own safety and that of your family.