Russia tightens airport medical rules for faster emergency care by 2026

Russia’s Ministry of Health has introduced new medical care rules for busy airports. The changes apply to those handling over 39,000 passengers a month. The updated requirements aim to ensure faster and more reliable emergency services for travellers and staff alike. The regulations demand that airports provide round-the-clock emergency and primary medical care. Operators must set up paramedic first-aid stations across their premises, with the exact number decided by each airport. However, not every location will need these stations if another primary care unit already exists nearby.

Emergency response teams must now reach the airport within 20 minutes of a call. If this time cannot be met, the airport must station its own on-duty emergency team. Paramedics will also be required to deliver urgent primary care within 30 minutes of a patient’s arrival. The stations themselves must include key facilities. These range from a waiting area and procedure room to an office for the supervisor and workstations for staff. Additional spaces, such as a rest area for medical personnel, a dining space, and separate restrooms for staff and patients, are also mandatory. The new rules will come into force on September 1, 2026.

The updated regulations set clear standards for medical care in high-traffic airports. They ensure faster emergency responses and better-equipped facilities for both patients and staff. All affected airports must comply by the 2026 deadline.