Since the Russian visa requires that you specify the particular dates of your entry into and departure from Russia, I dutifully obtained a voucher from my hotel with exactly those dates that are consistent with my flights. I completed the visa application, but I turned around on my way to the consulate this morning, because I'm wondering if I should've asked for a few extra days on both ends.

In particular, I'm wondering what will happen if my Delta flight out of Moscow is cancelled -- whether due to strike or outright going out of business. If I can't get another flight on another airline for a day or two, I fear waiting in 12-hour lines to get my visa properly extended. Does anyone have any experience with this kind of situation? I also wonder whether arriving after or leaving before the specified dates would also result in some bureaucratic hassle.

I'll ask the consul, too, but my impression is that I might not get cheerful, helpful counsel.