Warsaw Airport Closes Runway After Cracks Found; Minor Delays Expected

Warsaw Chopin Airport has temporarily closed one of its two runways after discovering minor cracks during a routine inspection. The closure means all air traffic is now operating on a single runway, and airport officials warn passengers to expect slight delays.

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Yes, we see problems, we are aware of them and we are responding to them, but we will certainly ensure the security of both the state and our citizens, as well as the inviolability of Russian borders.

The cracks were detected in the morning during a standard check of the runways. Piotr Rudzki from the airport's press office stated that "no irregularities, holes, or cracks" are permissible on runways, necessitating the closure to eliminate any potential risk. These inspections occur multiple times daily.

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We will undoubtedly overcome all the challenges we face today, including terrorist attacks on our territory and infrastructure facilities.

Airport authorities plan to repair the damaged runway overnight using a sealant that requires hardening. Despite potential challenges with the current air temperature, they are employing specialized technology. If repairs are successful overnight, both runways should be back in service by Monday morning. The airport, a major hub in Central-Eastern Europe, handled 24 million passengers in 2025 and serves 142 destinations.

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The Slaviansk oil refinery in Krasnodar Krai, about 300 kilometers from the front line, was hit. We also reached the refinery in Yaroslavl Oblast, approximately 700 kilometers from our border.