Safe Airspace – Conflict Zone and Risk Database

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Updates Alerts

Iran 29 Oct

New US SFAR: US operators are prohibited from overflying the OIIX/Tehran FIR.

Somalia 26 Oct

German Notam updated, advice remains the same: Do not operate to airports in Somalia, and do not overfly the airspace below FL260 except for UR401.

Iraq 26 Oct

Germany Notam updated, advice remains the same: overflights should be at FL260 or above.

Iran 26 Oct

Germany Notam updated, advice remain the same: exercise caution in the Tehran FIR due to risk posed by anti-aircraft weaponry.

Saudi Arabia 26 Oct

German Notam updated, advice remains the same: Potential risk to overflying or landing anywhere in Saudi Arabia, but particularly along the border with Yemen in the southwest part of the OEJD/Jeddah FIR.

Pakistan 26 Oct

German Notam updated, new advice that overflights should be at FL260 and above.

Ukraine 23 Oct

Updated French AIC, adding two airways to the list of permitted routes for overflights (M435 and M861). Overflights of the UKFV and UKDV FIRs in the east of the country should only be planned over six Black Sea airways: M854, M856, M860, L851, M435, and M861

Ukraine 19 Oct

Updated US SFAR: the ban on US operators overflying the eastern part of the UKDV/Dnipropetrovsk FIR is extended for another year, but restrictions have now been completely lifted on overflights of the UKFV/Simferopol FIR.

Iraq 16 Oct

Updated US SFAR: US operators are prohibited from overflying the Baghdad FIR below FL320. However, the long running FAA Notam (KICZ A0036/20) which completely bans traffic at all levels still stands.

Azerbaijan 05 Oct

New Azerbaijan Notam: Caution advised in the UBBA/Baku FIR due to the spillover of the conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Specific warning of threat posed by long-range missiles, which they claim Armenia has used to target locations throughout Azerbaijan.

Armenia 04 Oct

New Armenia Notam: Caution advised in the border region between Azerbaijan and Armenia due to ongoing conflict.

Armenia 29 Sep

Country summary updated: new warning advising operators to avoid the border region between Armenia and Azerbaijan due to escalation in military ops.

Azerbaijan 29 Sep

Country summary updated: new warning advising operators to avoid the border region between Armenia and Azerbaijan due to escalation in military ops.

Afghanistan 24 Sep

German Notam updated, advice remains the same: overflights should be at FL330 or above.

Mali 17 Sep

Updated German Notam, guidance remains the same: Avoid GATB, GAGO, GAMB and GAKL airports; overflights should be at FL260 or above.

South Sudan 17 Sep

Updated German Notam, advice remains the same: Overflights should be at FL260 or above.

Libya 14 Sep

Updated German Notam, guidance remains the same: operators are prohibited from overflying Libyan airspace. Do not enter any part of the HLLL/Tripoli FIR at any flight level.

North Korea 09 Sep

Updated German Notam, advice remains unchanged: there is a potential risk to overflights of North Korean airspace (ZKKP FIR) due to launching of test missiles without prior notice.

North Korea 07 Sep

US extends ban on flights in North Korea's ZKKP/Pyongyang FIR to September 2023.

Mali 20 Aug

Country Summary updated: Bamako Airport has reopened following last week’s military coup which overthrew the government, overflights remain unaffected.

Yemen 14 Aug

German Notam updated, advice remains the same: German operators are prohibited from operating on airways over the Yemen landmass within the OYSC/Sanaa FIR.

Egypt 11 Aug

Updated German Notam: Entire Sinai Peninsula presents a risk below FL260 for overflights and landings, with a particular focus on the northern part.

Libya 27 Jul

US warning on Libyan airspace extended to March 2023.

United Arab Emirates 23 Jul

Updated UAE Notam, warning remains the same: risk from Houthi weapons in Yemen targeting UAE territory

Azerbaijan 23 Jul

New French AIC: Operators should not overfly the border region with Armenia in the western part of Azerbaijan west of 47’20 East longitude, except for certain airways in the far north of the UBBA/Baku FIR at FL340 or above.

Armenia 23 Jul

New French AIC: Operators should not overfly Armenia east of 44’45 East longitude.

Turkey 22 Jul

Updated Notam, no new advice.

Azerbaijan 17 Jul

New German Notam: caution advised in the UBBA/Baku FIR due to escalation in military ops along the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan including anti-aircraft weaponry.

Armenia 17 Jul

New German Notam: caution advised in the UDDD/Yerevan FIR due to escalation in military ops along the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan including anti-aircraft weaponry.

Syria 29 Jun

German Notam updated, guidance remains the same: Flights are prohibited in Syrian airspace.

Iraq 17 Jun

Updated Ukraine Notam: Ukranian operators are prohibited from overflying Iraq

Iran 17 Jun

Updated Ukraine Notam: Ukranian operators are prohibited from overflying Iran

Iran 20 May

UK Notam extended, advice remains the same: UK operators should not overfly the Tehran FIR below 25,000ft AGL

Iraq 12 Mar

Iraq country summary updated to reflect the new airspace ban issued by the US FAA on Mar 12

Syria 07 Feb

Risk summary updated

Sudan 15 Jan

Country summary updated to include the temporary closure of HSSS/Khartoum on 14 Jan 2020 following armed clashes near the airport.

Iran 10 Jan

Following the shoot-down of Ukraine Int Airlines flight 752 in Tehran on Jan 8, multiple countries have issued airspace bans on Iran, and most airlines are now avoiding the entire Tehran FIR. This means that for aircraft operators, the Tehran FIR should be a no-fly area.

Libya 25 Nov

In Nov 2019, militia advancing on the capital, Tripoli, declared a no-fly-zone around the city, and there is now a very real chance that they will shoot-down civil aircraft attempting to fly to HLLM/Tripoli Mitiga airport.

Egypt 20 Jul

British Airways suspends Cairo operations for one week due to security concerns

Japan 27 May

US warning for Sea of Japan expired, no current warnings for Japan.

Venezuela 16 May

Ongoing political and social crisis in Venezuela. On 1st May 2019, the US FAA issued a new “Do Not Fly” instruction to US operators, barring all operations into or over Venezuela, unless operating at or above FL260, and giving a window of 48 hours to leave the country.

North Korea 10 May

Saudi Arabia 01 May

Minor update to summary

United Arab Emirates 15 Apr

Summary updated to reflect latest threat made by Houthi rebels in Yemen to target UAE.

Pakistan 21 Feb

Chad 31 Dec

South Sudan 31 Dec

Kenya 31 Dec

Somalia 31 Dec

Country summary updated to include the possible shoot-down of an Embraer EMB-120 while on approach to Bardale airstrip on May 4, 2020.

Ukraine 31 Dec

Added Crimea risk

Cyprus 31 Dec

Yemen 31 Dec

Afghanistan 31 Dec

Philippines 31 Dec

There is serious unrest in the Afar region in the east of Ethiopia, bordering Somalia and Djibouti, as different states fight over this disputed area. Airspace warnings are in place over Somalia, but travel alerts for general travel here have also been increased due to the current situation, with the UK recommending against all but essential travel. HADR/Dire Dawa and HAJJ/Jijiga airports are pretty close to the danger zone, so keep a close eye on latest developments for ops into either of those.

The US FAA has published a new Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) for Iran. It gives a lot of background info and in-depth detail of the airspace risk here, but it’s basically just a longer version of their old KICZ Notam A0002/20, and the rules haven’t changed - US operators are prohibited from overflying the OIIX/Tehran FIR. As per KICZ Notam A0016/20, flights can continue in the overwater airspace in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman just outside of Iran’s airspace, but operators should exercise caution and avoid the airways nearest to the OIIX/Tehran FIR whenever possible. More info at Safeairspace.net.

The annual lantern festival is taking place this weekend. Although celebrated everywhere in Thailand, the folks up north really get into it. The authorities there have said that lanterns are only allowed to be released between 19-01 local time (12-18z) on the nights of Oct 31 and Nov 1. But they say that every year, and the rules aren’t always followed! So a heads-up that if you’re planning on operating to VTCC/Chiang Mai or nearby VTCT/Chiang Rai on these days (particularly after sunset) you might need to re-plan. Each year at VTCC/Chiang Mai, hundreds of lanterns regularly drop into the airport compound, and this year, multiple flights have already been rescheduled or cancelled during this period.

Attacks by Houthi rebels earlier this week, targeting OEAH/Abha and OEGN/Jizan airports along the Yemeni-Saudi border. On Oct 28, the US Embassy warned of a possible attack on Riyadh, before rescinding the warning a few hours later. For overflights of the OEJD/Jeddah FIR and hear ‘SCATANA RULES ARE NOW ACTIVE’ you need to be aware that these apply to you! You will likely be given a change of route directly out of the airspace, or will be directed to land at the nearest suitable aerodrome. The purpose is to clear the affected airspace of all civilian aircraft at which point they close down all nav aids and airports until the threat has been dealt with. Long standing airspace warnings remain in place for Saudi Arabia, with significant risk particularly if intending to operate in southern regions. For more info, check our article.

Danger to foreigners remains high in Guinea at the moment as political unrest and violent clashes continue. In Conakry there are reports of protestors starting fires, setting up roadblocks and spreading motor oil along main thoroughfares near the airport. Sporadic gunfire has been reported, along with rocks thrown at passing vehicles. A new security alert has been issued by the US Embassy advising citizens to shelter in place. GUCY/Conakry remains open, but crew should exercise caution if planning to operate there.

Presidential elections took place in Guinea on October 18 and since then tensions have been running high. A candidate has proclaimed himself the winner before all the votes were counted, and people aren’t happy about it. Violent clashes and unrest have been reported, particularly in the capital Conakry. There are reports of multiple casualties. Both the US and UK are now advising their citizens to avoid travelling there unless it is absolutely necessary on account of the ongoing demonstrations and Covid state of emergency.

There are reports that Azeri forces have intercepted two unmanned Armenian drones. The first was targeting the country’s second largest city, Ganja, while the second was targeting a region further to the east. Both locations are near the waypoint ADEKI – currently considered the safest routing for aircraft entering and exiting the Baku FIR in the West. The drones are suspected of being ‘loitering munitions’ meaning that they remain in the area for some time before selecting a target and it is unclear how high they able to fly. Further attacks can be expected, so continue to monitor the situation closely if planning to operate in the area.

A live firing exercise took place over the weekend at the coastal city of Sinop – located at the most northern point of Turkey’s Black Sea Coast. A sophisticated Russian made anti-aircraft weapon system was tested with at least one live missile being fired. Notam airspace restrictions were issued for the exercise, but the tests appear to have angered the US government. It is suggested that the weapon violates shared NATO defence agreements, and if operationalised, would result in ‘serious consequences.’ The truck-mounted system is capable of targeting aircraft over 200nm away, as high as FL900. As for Turkey’s motivation to buy the equipment? It's unclear but likely a political statement of defensive strength to the rest of the world. Keep an eye on the Turkish Notams for future testing.

The situation with Armenia remains volatile. A fragile cease-fire agreement was announced over the weekend following heavy fighting from both sides. However, tensions remain high. Both sides have been using ballistic weaponry to indiscriminately attack civilian and military interests near the border. On Saturday, Azerbaijan’s second largest city, Ganja, was once again struck by long range Scud missiles causing multiple casualties. Its airport was badly damaged by artillery fire earlier this month. For now, airspace warnings remain firmly in place, with Azerbaijan making no guarantees that the conflict will not spill over into other areas. Continue to monitor the situation closely.

The FAA has extended its airspace warning on Iraq until October 2022. The re-issued Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) prohibits all US civil operators from overflying the Baghdad FIR below FL320. A head's up though, you still can’t go. The long running FAA Notam (KICZ A0036/20) which completely bans traffic at all levels still stands. The difference between the two is added flexibility should the security situation improve. Based on a recent flare up in hostilities between local militia and US forces, this is unlikely to happen anytime soon.

A state of emergency has been declared in Bangkok due to widespread political protests demanding the resignation of the prime minister. Despite being banned by authorities, large gatherings have continued to occur across the city. In some cases, riot police have used water cannons to disperse the crowds. Moving around the city is likely to be difficult at the moment - public transport has been shut down, and protestors have been blocking roads. The rail service between downtown and VTBS/Bangkok has also been suspended. Take care if visiting in the short term, foreigners are advised to remain well clear of any action.

Just when you thought it was safe, the rocket man is back. And we’re not talking about Elton. For the second time in six weeks, a man in a jet pack has been spotted flying uncomfortably close to arrivals into KLAX. On Wednesday afternoon a crew reported seeing the offender at an altitude of 6,000 feet just 7nm northwest of the airport. Local authorities were alerted but understandably unable to capture the airborne lawbreaker. These incidents remain concerning given that they are occurring in some of the busiest airspace in the US. Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI on 310 477-6565. Also check out our recent article on the topic by clicking the link.

There have been recent reports of ILS signal interference that has led to strange auto flight behavior, including excessive descent rates and loss of terrain separation (especially on Runway 07R/25L). The majority of cases involved Boeing aircraft. IATA have recently published findings on the issue. It appears that the location of the antennas, terrain and a known issue with Boeing’s AFDS system are causing the problem. The advice is to consider RNP/RNAV approaches as alternatives, or thoroughly brief the threat including stabilised approach criteria and go-around procedures in the event of false ILS capture.

Violent civil unrest has erupted in the capital city of Bishek, in response to a disputed election held last week. Opposition groups have attempted to overthrow the government and stormed numerous buildings while demanding the resignation of the country’s president. A state of emergency has been declared as ‘mob rule’ has reportedly spread across the country. Political groups continue to violently clash in the streets, causing injury to over a thousand people. The military have been deployed to control the crowds. The situation is volatile and remains dangerous to westerners – the US embassy has issued a security alert advising citizens to shelter in place. Use caution if planning to operating there.

On October 7, militants armed with rifles reportedly emerged from the bushes and attempted to attack WABV/Sugapa, a small airport in central Papua. They were thwarted by authorities who have increased security measures since the incident. Indonesia is generally considered relatively stable, but there has been some political unrest in recent years. Minor conflicts do occur particularly within the Papua region between tribal and religious groups. There doesn’t appear to be an imminent risk to flight operations, but care should be taken at smaller airports with less security.

Azerbaijan has issued a broad new airspace warning via Notam. They say the conflict is now no longer confined to the contested border region, and that Armenia has been using long-range missiles to target civilian interests ‘throughout the territory.’ On the northern border with Georgia, waypoint ADEKI is now the only crossing point which remains open. Operators in the Baku FIR are advised to follow ATC instructions, submit flight plans in advance and expect tactical deviations. The risk to civil aviation remains high, keep an eye on safeairspace.net for further updates.

Saudi air defences have intercepted another explosive drone, believed to be targeting the city of Najran - 15nm to the west of OENG/Najran airport. Reportedly fired by Houthi rebels in Yemen, it was destroyed before it reached its target. Frequent UAV, rocket and missile attacks continue to be an issue in both the Sanaa and Jeddah FIRs, with Riyadh also targeted on multiple occasions. Long standing airspace warnings remain in place for Saudi Arabia, with significant risk particularly if intending to operate in southern regions.

Syria has published Notams for some of its secondary airports (OSLK, OSAP, OSKL & OSDZ) saying that although international commercial flights remain suspended here, you can still use them as fuel-and-go alternates and for emergencies, and that Syrian airspace is open for overflights. Ignore these Notams - don’t go anywhere near Syria. There are multiple risks to aviation here, including the very real threat of coming under fire from Syrian air defences. Several airspace warnings remain in place, including a total flight ban by the US FAA.

The conflict with Armenia is escalating. Fierce fighting from both sides has continued. The conflict is beginning to spread beyond the border region where hostilities began. Armenian forces have threatened that military installations ‘across the country’ in Azerbaijan may be targeted. Over the weekend, both sides have exchanged heavy fire using rockets and missiles. Armenia heavily shelled Ganja, Azerbaijan’s second largest city on Sunday causing widespread damage and multiple casualties. It’s worth noting that waypoint ADEKI, currently the ‘safe’ option for overflying aircraft, is only 40nm north of UBBG/Ganja - which was reportedly destroyed by ballistic weaponry. Both sides appear to now be targeting military and civilian interests indiscriminately. No change to flight restrictions (at this stage) but operate in the Yerevan and Baku FIRs with extreme caution.

Fighting has continued for a fifth day in the Nagorno-Karabakh region along the border between Azerbaijan and Armenia. No end is in sight despite considerable international pressure for a ceasefire. Unconfirmed reports this week that an Armenian Su-25 fighter was shot down by a Turkish F-16 near the border. The advice remains simple – avoid the border and contested regions. Overflights via ADEKI continue, as it is unlikely the conflict will expand geographically, at least at this stage. If you’re headed to one of the airports (UDYZ/Yerevan, UBBB/Baku, etc) make sure you know where the conflict zone is, where the closed/restricted airspace is, and carry extra fuel in case of short-notice closures.

Escalating tensions in Iraq after an alleged US threat to close down its embassy there, in response to multiple recent attacks against US interests. On Wednesday an IED was detonated on the Airport Road targeting a private security convoy on transit from ORBI/Baghdad to the international zone, along the main thoroughfare into the central city. On the same day six Katyusha rockets were fired at ORER/Erbil targeting coalition forces at the airport, in addition to multiple rounds of small arms fire. Iraqi authorities have declared the act a "serious escalation." Risks to civil aviation remain high across Iraq, monitor Safeairspace.net for updates.

Be careful if commuting to and from the airport. In accordance with the state of martial law, a strict curfew is in place across the country including Baku, between the hours of 9pm and 6am each night. Travel to and from the airport is allowed during these periods, but you may need to prove it if you’re approached by local authorities. For pax, a plane ticket is sufficient, but no guidance has been given for aircrew. Ensure you have a valid ID and proof of your operating flight if travelling during this period.

Two rockets were fired at the airport on Monday which missed their mark and killed five people in a neighbouring village. It is thought to be the work of local militia. The attack is the latest in a series of similar strikes against US interests at the airport over the past few months. The frequency of recent rocket attacks has put a strain on Iraq-US relations, with the US Government threatening to close down the embassy. It is clear that the problem is not under control and continues to present significant risks to civil aviation. Operate there with extreme caution.

Conflict with Armenia continues to escalate, with further casualties and heavy artillery fire from both sides. The situation is volatile with both countries indicating they are close to declaring outright war. In Azerbaijan, authorities have enforced a mass cancellation of all international flights apart from services to Turkey. While in Armenia, major carriers have also elected not to operate within the Yerevan FIR. Two new notams have been issued for Azerbaijani airspace - it appears they want aircraft to stay as far away from the Armenian border as possible. For crossing traffic, tracking via the northerly waypoint of ADEKI is now available in both directions facilitating entry and exit to the Baku FIR via Georgian airspace instead (UBBA Notam A0122/20 refers). FIR boundary waypoints BARAD and DISKA are now closed due to their proximity to the conflict zone (UBBA Notam A0123/20 refers). All eyes are on the region for further developments.

There was a significant flare-up in hostilities between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the weekend in the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region. Both Azeri and Armenian forces have accused each other of shelling attacks targeting military interests and civilians, and there have been reports of casualties. Tensions have escalated with both countries declaring martial law and mobilisation of their military. The situation is evolving rapidly, with a nationwide curfew introduced. Multiple embassies have issued new security alerts. The threat to civil aviation near the border should be taken seriously, with overflights also affected - a temporary restricted area has been in place since July which effectively closes all east/west airways between the two countries. Dangers to airspace include explosive drones and anti-aircraft weaponry.

The airport has come under direct fire twice in the past week. On Sunday, the airport was shelled by three Katyusha rockets which caused minor damage. Another one was fired yesterday targeting US military interests from a nearby suburb. It is unclear who was responsible. There have also been several attacks in recent weeks inside the Green Zone where the US embassy is located. The risk to aviation within the Baghdad FIR remains severe. The FAA continues to prohibit US operators from flying there.

Saudi air defences have intercepted an explosive drone believed to be targeting OEAB/Abha airport. Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed responsibility for the attack, reporting that multiple explosive drones had been fired at the airport, causing damage to airport infrastructure and flight disruptions for many hours. No casualties have been reported but the threat remains highly concerning to civil aviation. Militia continue to target civilian interests in Saudi Arabia, with multiple attacks reported in the preceding months including on Riyadh. Long standing airspace warnings remain in place, with significant risk particularly if intending to operate in southern regions.

The US embassy has issued a security alert reporting that extremists have been planning to randomly kidnap foreigners in N’djamena, and in neighbouring Northern Cameroon. It is unclear what the alleged timing or method is, however kidnapping events may occur in major cities. International flights have resumed in Chad and foreigners have been permitted to enter since early August. But just because you can doesn’t mean you should. The US department of state maintains its second highest level of travel warning for Chad – basically only go there if you have too.

Syrian air defences intercepted multiple missiles that were targeting an air force base near the city of Homs (80nm north of OSDI/Damascus). They were reportedly fired by Israeli forces. There were no casualties, but heavy damage was sustained on properties in the surrounding area. There have been several similar attacks earlier in the year which have presented significant risks to civil aviation, including an A320 that was actively fired upon. Multiple airspace warnings remain in place, including a total flight ban by the US FAA. In short, don’t fly to Syria, or overfly the country.

There have been large protests at the country’s major airports on Monday, including DNMM/Lagos, DNMA/Maiduguri, DNKN/Kano, DNPO/Port Harcourt and DNAA/Abuja. Hundreds of air transport industry workers have gathered and entered terminal buildings to protest the government’s concession plan for airports. They have so far remained peaceful, however continued disruptions on roads around the airports are expected as security forces are deployed to disperse them. The protests remain ongoing. Aircraft movements have so far not been affected, however the US State Department continues to recommend that all foreigners avoid large gatherings in Nigeria and maintain awareness of their personal security.

The Philippines CAA temporarily closed RPMJ/Jolo airport after nearby bombings on Aug 24 killed 15 people. Now authorities are stepping up security measures nationwide as a result, to include Manila city and RPLL/Manilla airport - expect heightened security in the short term including checkpoints to prevent a spillover of attacks. Jolo is located in the part of the Philippines where martial law has been in place since early 2017 due to terrorist activity and clashes between the military and insurgent groups (i.e. everywhere in western Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago). Check the detailed advice from the UK FCO before travelling here.

An update on the Armenia-Azerbaijan airspace warnings, following clashes along the northern border in mid-July. The airspace warning initially issued by Germany was rescinded on July 31. However, the warning issued by France has been incorporated into the the big AIC they keep with airspace warnings for various different countries around the world. Essentially, France says that operators should not overfly Armenia east of 44’45 East longitude; or Azerbaijan west of 47’20 East longitude except for certain airways in the far north of the UBBA/Baku FIR at FL340 or above. In related news, Azerbaijan has extended the airspace closure along the northern border with Armenia until Sept 18, which means that all east-west airways between the two countries remain closed. More info in our article.

There has been a turnaround in the border situation in Mali as regards air travel at least, as Bamako Airport is set to officially reopen again within the hour. Notam A1360/20 was issued at 2259Z on Thursday (10 minutes ago at time of this alert). A decision was made earlier today to reopen the airport, and this appears to be the confirmation, though monitor GOOO and GABS Notams for further - it may change. The night curfew continues. Bamako ACC remains operational with overflights unaffected. ICAO continue to monitor. MedAire have given us a local situation update: an opposition protest is planned for the city tomorrow, and with the continuing uncertainty they recommend against overnights until things settle. There is likely to be a high demand for emergency/evac flights in the coming days, and they recommend those to be quick in and outs for now.

The military leaders behind yesterday’s coup have declared that Mali’s air and land borders will be closed until further notice, and have imposed a night curfew. There are no indications yet on exactly how this will be enforced and for how long. The Notam advising that GABS/Bamako airport is closed has now expired, but local agents have said that the airport will remain closed until Aug 26 at the earliest. The latest update from ICAO is that the Bamako ACC is operational, ATC service as normal, and the airspace remains open at this time. The Bamako TMA sits under the DRRR/Niamey FIR, and overflights are unaffected. In the meantime, Bamako remains in a state of civil unrest with sporadic gunfire reported. State issued security warnings remain in place.

Update from ICAO, who are monitoring the situation in Mali. GABS/Bamako Airport is confirmed closed, as per Notam A1354/20. However, Bamako ACC is operational, ATC service as normal, and the airspace remains open at this time. The Bamako TMA sits under the DRRR/Niamey FIR, and overflights are unaffected. ICAO is actively monitoring and ensuring that there is a timely flow of information on continued airspace/ATC service availability. Armed troops have been moving freely throughout the streets of Bamako, while there are reports of citizens firing machine guns into the air. Multiple states have issued security alerts including the US embassy which is advising citizens to shelter in place.

A military coup has overthrown the government, resulting in both the President and Prime Minister being detained. The President has since resigned, and it now appears that the military is in control of the country. GABS/Bamako is currently closed (GABS A1354/20 refers), and a spokesperson for the military has announced that all air and land borders are now closed "until further notice". IATA are reporting that overflights are still ok, and that the Bamako ACC Upper Traffic Area (UTA) remains operational. Armed troops have been moving freely throughout the streets of Bamako, while there are reports of citizens firing machine guns into the air. Multiple states have issued security alerts including the US embassy which is advising citizens to shelter in place.

The risk to civil aviation remains high in Iraq. There have been multiple rocket attacks in the last few days. On August 14 both Balad Airbase (40nm north of ORBI/Baghdad) and ORBI/Baghdad itself were attacked by multiple Katyusha rockets fired by local militia. On August 15, multiple rockets were fired at Camp Taji (a US military base 20 nm north of ORBI/Baghdad) while the US embassy was targeted by at least two more rockets on August 16. There have been no reported casualties but further attacks targeting US military and foreign interests are expected. More info about the risks of operating to or over Iraq can be found at SafeAirspace.net

It has been an eventful weekend in Mogadishu for terrorism. Al Shabaab militants have attacked multiple districts seemingly at random with grenades which affected more than half the city. In the meantime, a bomb was detonated at the Elite Hotel (4 miles from HCMM/Aden Adde), before heavily armed gunmen entered and took several guests hostage. Seventeen people were killed in the resulting siege. The security situation in Somalia remains highly volatile to both civilians and aircraft. The FAA has banned US operators from flying there until at least 2023, while the government has issued its highest level of travel warning to US citizens - clearly with good reason.

Two very large explosions occurred at the Port of Beirut on Tuesday, 5nm North of OLBA/Beirut. There are reports of mass casualties, thousands of injuries and extensive damage to central districts. It is believed that the explosions were caused by stored chemicals or explosives. A large fire is still burning, and official advice is to remain indoors, and keep windows closed. Expect significant disruptions in the city in the near term. The US embassy in Lebanon has issued a security alert to all US citizens located there.

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