Russia tightens airport medical care rules for busy hubs by 2026

Russia’s Ministry of Health has introduced new rules for medical care at busy airports. The changes apply to those handling over 39,000 passengers a month. The updated requirements will start on September 1, 2026. Under the new order, airport operators must provide round-the-clock emergency and primary medical care. This includes setting up paramedic first-aid stations across all airport areas. The number of stations will be decided by each airport operator.

Each station must have a waiting area, a procedure room, and an office for the supervisor. Workstations for medical staff, a rest area, a dining space, and separate restrooms for staff and patients are also required. The rules state that emergency medical teams must arrive within 20 minutes of a call. If response times exceed this limit, airports must keep an on-duty emergency team on-site. Paramedic stations must also deliver urgent primary care within 30 minutes of a patient’s arrival. Airports already offering primary medical and sanitary care through another unit are exempt from setting up new paramedic points.

The new regulations aim to improve emergency response times and medical support at high-traffic airports. Operators will need to assess their current facilities and make adjustments before the September 2026 deadline. Compliance will ensure faster and more efficient medical assistance for passengers and staff.