Flights from Vilnius to Minsk cancelled by Eurolines - discovering the cause
In a significant development, a major European bus carrier, Eurolines TOKS BS, has suspended numerous routes between Vilnius and Minsk, the capital of Belarus, due to restrictions imposed by the Lithuanian authorities. The suspensions, which began on August 11, are a result of security and regulatory concerns amid the tense political situation linked to Belarus.
The disruptions reflect the strained relations between Lithuania and Belarus, with Lithuania taking actions including transport restrictions that have led to carriers like Eurolines TOKS BS halting their routes connecting the two cities. Passengers reported significant delays and cancellations in July, which preceded the formal suspension from August 11, indicating escalating operational difficulties and governmental intervention.
According to Infotrans Media Belarus, the Lithuanian Ministry of Transport provided an official explanation for the cancellations. The number of buses crossing the Belarus-Lithuania border exceeded the set limit, leading to warnings for the carriers. Additionally, the upcoming "West-2025" drills in a neighboring country are cited as another reason for the cancellations.
Currently, the cancelled departures from Vilnius include those at 05:30, 06:00, 07:20, 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, and 13:30, as well as 14:30, 15:00, and 21:30. The cancelled departures from Minsk include those at 05:30, 06:00, 06:30, 12:40, 13:00, and 13:50, as well as 17:00, 18:00, 19:00, and 20:40. Notably, "Minsktrans" has temporarily suspended service on the international route Minsk - Vilnius - Minsk with departures from Minsk at 01:50, 10:20, 12:00, and from Vilnius at 08:00, 17:30, 18:00 (starting from August 14).
Despite the cancellations, some bus carriers offer the option to choose another carrier on cancelled routes. Moreover, refunds for tickets on cancelled routes will be given in full. It is important to note that the cancellations may not be in effect until at least the start of the following week (August 18), although this may change.
As the situation continues to evolve, passengers are advised to check with their respective carriers for the latest updates on their travel plans. The suspensions underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics at play and the potential impact they can have on cross-border transport.
The suspensions of Eurolines TOKS BS routes between Vilnius and Minsk have led to operational difficulties not only in the transportation industry but also in the automotive sector, as passengers are seeking alternative travel arrangements. The geopolitical tensions between Lithuania and Belarus have extended beyond finance, affecting various sectors including transportation.
