Georgia's national carrier, Georgian Airways, has suffered an estimated $8 million in losses in 2026 due to repeated restrictions on Russian airport operations amid drone attacks.

Tamaz Gaiashvili, a member of the airline's supervisory board, said the disruptions had significantly increased the carrier's operating costs, according to ASTRA.

Since September, the airline has reduced its daily flights from Tbilisi to Moscow from three to two. Airport closures have forced aircraft to divert to alternative airfields and change flight paths, sometimes taking longer routes around the Urals.

These disruptions have resulted in additional fuel and passenger service costs, compensation payments for delays and missed connecting flights.

Gaiashvili also noted that airport handling and air navigation services in Russia cost Georgian Airways more than they do Russian carriers. Meanwhile, insurance premiums for flights to Russia have increased by approximately 50%.

Due to the unpredictable operating environment, Georgian Airways has put plans to expand its Russian route network on hold until airport operations become more stable. However, the airline intends to maintain its existing services.

Gaiashvili also criticized the procedures followed by Russian aviation authorities when aircraft are diverted. He said passengers were sometimes kept on board for hours and, after being allowed to disembark at alternative airports, were not permitted to reboard because continuing the journey could be classified as cabotage.

In some cases, passengers had to reach Moscow using other flights or by train.

Georgian Airways resumed flights to Russia in May 2023. It currently operates services to Moscow, St. Petersburg and Novosibirsk.