Russia resumes Moscow-Pyongyang commercial flights -Video

Russian passenger jet landed at North Korea’s main airport on Monday, marking the first commercial flight between the two allied nations’ capitals in decades, according to flight tracking data.

The Boeing 777 operated by Russia’s Nordwind Airlines touched down in Pyongyang at 09:15 am local time (00:15 GMT), inaugurating a new direct air route as Moscow and Pyongyang deepen their political and military cooperation. “This is a historical event, strengthening the ties between our nations,” said Oleg, a Nordwind employee on the flight, speaking to AFP at Moscow’s airport before departure.

A video posted on the Russian news agency RIA Novosti’s Telegram channel showed North Korean officials and flight attendants welcoming Russian passengers with flowers at Pyongyang International Airport. One official was seen checking the temperatures of arriving passengers, reflecting ongoing health precautions.

Among the passengers was Russia’s Minister of Natural Resources, Alexander Kozlov, underscoring the significance Moscow attaches to this newly established connection.

The flight underscores the growing alliance between two heavily sanctioned countries. Last year, Russia and North Korea signed a military cooperation agreement that includes a mutual defense clause, solidifying their strategic partnership. This followed a rare visit to Pyongyang by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has publicly pledged full support to Russia during recent discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, state media confirmed.

Russia’s state news agency TASS reported that the inaugural return flight from Pyongyang to Moscow is scheduled for Tuesday, further establishing this historic air link. This development not only signals a thaw in direct connections between Russia and North Korea but also reflects the broader geopolitical shifts amid ongoing conflicts and sanctions that are impacting both nations.