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Updates Alerts
Armenia 20 Sep
Risk summary updated: Ceasefire agreed between Armenia and Azerbaijan, following military conflict in the border zone. Azerbaijan has reopened the border airspace, but most operators are still actively avoiding the region, and routing north via Georgian airspace (UGGG/Tbilisi FIR) instead.
Azerbaijan 20 Sep
Risk summary updated: Ceasefire agreed between Armenia and Azerbaijan, following military conflict in the border zone. Azerbaijan has reopened the border airspace, but most operators are still actively avoiding the region, and routing north via Georgian airspace (UGGG/Tbilisi FIR) instead.
Myanmar 17 Sep
Risk summary updated: Several attacks by rebel groups against military targets across the country, including a makeshift drone which dropped bombs on aircraft hangars at an airbase next to VYNT/Naypyitaw airport.
Japan 15 Sep
US extends ban on flights in North Korea's ZKKP/Pyongyang FIR, including the oceanic part over the Sea of Japan, to Sep 2028.
North Korea 15 Sep
US extends ban on flights in North Korea's ZKKP/Pyongyang FIR, including the oceanic part over the Sea of Japan, to Sep 2028.
Mali 11 Sep
Risk summary updated: Germany is considering a flight ban due to deteriorating security situation; Updated map showing closed airspace over the country.
Mali 07 Sep
Germany is considering a flight ban in Mali - the security situation is getting worse in the Northern half of the country, and there are threats to civil aviation below FL260.
Iraq 30 Aug
Risk summary updated: Reports of GPS spoofing over the ORBB/Baghdad FIR.
Egypt 21 Aug
New Germany Notam: Northern Sinai Peninsula presents a risk below FL260 due to anti-aviation and ground weaponry (supersedes AIC which recommends not to enter this area).
Niger 15 Aug
Risk elevated to Level 3 for Niger, due to risk of target misidentification for civil traffic. The military junta is operating defensively, and actively looking for signs of an invasion from neighbouring states.
Libya 14 Aug
Risk summary updated: Major evacuation of aircraft from Tripoli due to security risk, violent clashes and gunfire.
Saudi Arabia 10 Aug
Canada AIC: Risk level downgraded from 2 to 1. Canadian operators now advised caution in the OEJD/Jeddah FIR (previous advice was to avoid flights here) due to potential risk from anti-aviation weaponry and military operations; also due to short notice ESCAT rules in airspace next to Yemen.
Moldova 03 Aug
Moldova AIP SUP: In Moldova's airspace (the LUUU/Chisinau FIR) there is a section of airspace along the western border with the LRBB/Bucharesti FIR that is open for flights to LUKK/Chisinau airport.
Afghanistan 25 Jul
Risk summary updated: The US FAA has eased its airspace warning to now permit US operators to overfly the OAKX/Kabul FIR at FL320 and above.
Afghanistan 25 Jul
New US SFAR: US operators are now permitted to overfly the OAKX/Kabul FIR at FL320 and above (previously, flights were only allowed on airways P500/G500 in the east of the country).
Sudan 21 Jul
Germany Notam extended: German operators are prohibited from entering the HSSS/Khartoum FIR due to risks from anti-aircraft weaponry and military activity.
Sudan 13 Jul
UK Notam extended: UK operators should not enter the airspace of Sudan due to risks from anti-aircraft weaponry and military activity.
North Korea 11 Jul
Risk summary updated: North Korea is threatening to actively shoot down reconnaissance aircraft in their airspace. This may put civil aviation at higher risk of mistaken identity in or near the ZKKP/Pyongyang FIR boundary.
Belarus 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should avoid the airspace of Belarus.
Israel 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should exercise caution in the LLLL/Tel Aviv FIR and follow Notams and ATC instructions closely (Israel might publish restrictions at short notice when air defenses are repelling attacks from Gaza and Syria).
Russia 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators are prohibited from Russian airspace within 200nm of the Russia/Ukraine border, and must do a risk assessment if planning to operate in the UUWV/Moscow FIR.
Mali 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should avoid the airspace of Mali.
Syria 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should avoid the OSTT/Damascus FIR.
Saudi Arabia 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should exercise caution in the OEJD/Jeddah FIR and follow ATC instructions closely (Saudi Arabia might activate ESCAT rules at short notice when air defenses are repelling drone and missile attacks from Yemen).
Ethiopia 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should exercise caution in the HAAA/Addis Ababa FIR due to risks from anti-aircraft weaponry.
Iran 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should maintain FL320 or above in the OIIX/Tehran FIR.
Iraq 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should maintain FL320 or above in the ORBB/Baghdad FIR due to the risk from anti-aircraft weaponry.
Cyprus 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should exercise caution in the LCCC/Nicosia FIR due to firing exercises, and follow ATC instructions closely.
North Korea 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should exercise caution in the ZKKP/Pyongyang FIR due to risks from missile launches without prior notice.
Pakistan 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should avoid the airspace of Pakistan below FL320.
Ukraine 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators are prohibited from the airspace of Ukraine, including the contested UKFV/Simferopol FIR over Crimea (claimed by Russia as the URFV FIR).
Ukraine 10 Jul
Ukraine Notam extended: Ukraine airspace remains closed to all civil flights (since Feb 2022) due to Russian invasion and ongoing conflict.
Afghanistan 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should not enter the OAKX/Kabul FIR, except on airways P500/G500.
Somalia 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should maintain FL260 or above in the HCSM/Mogadishu FIR.
Yemen 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should avoid the OYSC/Sanaa FIR below FL320.
Sudan 10 Jul
Italy Notam extended: Italian operators should avoid the HSSS/Khartoum FIR below FL260 due to risks from anti-aircraft weaponry and military activity.
Iran 06 Jul
Risk summary updated: Four countries claim Iran has not provided sufficient evidence that measures are now in place to prevent another shootdown incident from happening.
Ethiopia 04 Jul
Germany AIC updated: Risk level lowered from 2 (medium) to 1 (lowest risk) - now just advise caution in the HAAA/Addis Ababa FIR due to risk posed by anti-aircraft weaponry. (Previous warning said not to enter the Tigray region).
Cyprus 03 Jul
Cyprus Notam extended: Expect GPS interference in Cyprus airspace.
Venezuela 27 Jun
US KICZ Notam cancelled. There are now no longer any airspace warnings in place for Venezuela.
Cyprus 13 Jun
Cyprus Notam extended: Caution in Cyprus airspace due to military aircraft flying with no transponders.
Sudan 31 May
France Notam extended: French operators should not enter the airspace of Sudan, nor file Sudanese airports as alternates.
Sudan 18 May
New Canada AIC: Canadian operators should avoid the HSSS/Khartoum FIR due to risks from anti-aircraft weaponry and military activity.
Iraq 05 May
Iraq Notam extended, no change to warning: Operators should expect GPS jamming on approach to ORER/Erbil Airport, as well as for overflights heading southbound in the northern part of Iraq along airway UM688 from RATVO to VAXEN.
Sudan 02 May
Risk summary updated: Conflict continues despite ceasefire, Sudan airspace closed.
Saudi Arabia 20 Apr
Germany AIC: Potential risk in Saudi Arabia, but especially the southwest part of the OEJD/Jeddah FIR due to the risk of drone and missile attacks from Yemen.
South Sudan 15 Apr
Risk summary updated: Impact of Sudan military coup.
Moldova 17 Feb
Country summary updated: Added info on spillover risks from the conflict in Ukraine including Russian drone and missile strikes.
Indonesia 08 Feb
The security situation in Papua remains poor. While there are no active airspace warnings for Indonesian Papua or neighbouring Papua New Guinea, the region has a recent history of armed groups targeting either low flying aircraft or airports themselves.
Congo DRC 30 Jan
Risk summary updated: Flights at lower levels in airspace near the border between Rwanda and Congo DRC may be at increased risk, following a recent incident where a Congo DRC fighter jet came under fire from the Rwandan military.
Rwanda 30 Jan
Risk summary updated: Flights at lower levels in airspace near the border between Rwanda and Congo DRC may be at increased risk, following a recent incident where a Congo DRC fighter jet came under fire from the Rwandan military.
Somalia 06 Jan
Risk summary updated: US restrictions updated, flights below FL260 now allowed for flights to/from HDAM/Djibouti airport across the border in the airspace of Ethiopia.
Ethiopia 02 Dec
Risk summary updated: Improving airspace risk picture in northern Ethiopia since peace deal, though airspace warnings remain in place.
Central African Republic 30 Nov
Risk summary updated: Flights at lower levels near Bangui may be at increased risk, following recent incident where unidentified aircraft dropped bombs targeting a militant group 150nm north of Bangui.
Turkey 22 Nov
Risk summary updated: Flights in southern Turkey may be at increased risk due to recent shelling and rocket strikes near the border with Syria.
United Arab Emirates 25 Oct
Risk summary updated: No reported drone or missile strikes from Yemen since a ceasefire was agreed in April 2022, but this has not been extended as of Oct 2022, and there are concerns that the conflict may start up again soon.
Saudi Arabia 25 Oct
Risk summary updated: No reported drone or missile strikes from Yemen since a ceasefire was agreed in April 2022, but this has not been extended as of Oct 2022, and there are concerns that the conflict may start up again soon.
Yemen 25 Oct
Risk summary updated: No reported drone or missile strikes coming from Yemen since a ceasefire was agreed in April 2022, but this has not been extended as of Oct 2022, and there are concerns that the conflict may start up again soon.
Japan 04 Oct
Risk summary updated: North Korea fired a ballistic missile directly over Japan - the first to incur on Japanese airspace since 2017. Risk to aircraft from debris from missile re-entries striking aircraft overflying the oceanic part of the ZKKP/Pyongyang FIR over the Sea of Japan.
Russia 24 Aug
Syria 11 Jun
Risk summary rewritten to update major events.
Egypt 31 Mar
Egypt summary updated, US airspace warning rescinded.
Ukraine 28 Feb
Country summary updated to reflect flight bans issued by several countries due to risk from military conflict.
Belarus 28 Feb
Country summary updated to reflect airspace warnings issued by several countries due to risk from military conflict in Ukraine.
Western Sahara 21 Nov
Risk summary rewritten and updated.
20-Sep Armenia
Risk summary updated: Ceasefire agreed between Armenia and Azerbaijan, following military conflict in the border zone. Azerbaijan has reopened the border airspace, but most operators are still actively avoiding the region, and routing north via Georgian airspace (UGGG/Tbilisi FIR) instead.
20-Sep Azerbaijan
Risk summary updated: Ceasefire agreed between Armenia and Azerbaijan, following military conflict in the border zone. Azerbaijan has reopened the border airspace, but most operators are still actively avoiding the region, and routing north via Georgian airspace (UGGG/Tbilisi FIR) instead.
17-Sep Myanmar
Risk summary updated: Several attacks by rebel groups against military targets across the country, including a makeshift drone which dropped bombs on aircraft hangars at an airbase next to VYNT/Naypyitaw airport.
15-Sep Japan
US extends ban on flights in North Korea's ZKKP/Pyongyang FIR, including the oceanic part over the Sea of Japan, to Sep 2028. [SFAR 79]
15-Sep North Korea
US extends ban on flights in North Korea's ZKKP/Pyongyang FIR, including the oceanic part over the Sea of Japan, to Sep 2028. [SFAR 79]
11-Sep Mali
Risk summary updated: Germany is considering a flight ban due to deteriorating security situation; Updated map showing closed airspace over the country.
07-Sep Mali
Germany is considering a flight ban in Mali - the security situation is getting worse in the Northern half of the country, and there are threats to civil aviation below FL260. [Notam EDWW B0980/23 ]
30-Aug Iraq
Risk summary updated: Reports of GPS spoofing over the ORBB/Baghdad FIR.
21-Aug Egypt
New Germany Notam: Northern Sinai Peninsula presents a risk below FL260 due to anti-aviation and ground weaponry (supersedes AIC which recommends not to enter this area). [Notam B0891/23]
15-Aug Niger
Risk elevated to Level 3 for Niger, due to risk of target misidentification for civil traffic. The military junta is operating defensively, and actively looking for signs of an invasion from neighbouring states.
14-Aug Libya
Risk summary updated: Major evacuation of aircraft from Tripoli due to security risk, violent clashes and gunfire.
10-Aug Saudi Arabia
Canada AIC: Risk level downgraded from 2 to 1. Canadian operators now advised caution in the OEJD/Jeddah FIR (previous advice was to avoid flights here) due to potential risk from anti-aviation weaponry and military operations; also due to short notice ESCAT rules in airspace next to Yemen. [AIC 21/23]
20-Sep A ceasefire has been agreed between Armenia and Azerbaijan, following military conflict in the border zone. Azerbaijan published new Notams saying that cross-border waypoints were closed. These Notams were cancelled on Sep 20, but most operators are still actively avoiding the region, and routing north via Georgian airspace (UGGG/Tbilisi FIR) instead.
20-Sep 3 aircraft in the last few weeks have reported to OPSGROUP very similar circumstances in Iraqi airspace. GPS unreliability (jamming) is a known issue, but these incidents are different because they relate to GPS spoofing, ie. a ground station sending a false GPS position to trick the receiver. In all cases, a 60nm position error resulted, as well as unexpected fails of the IRS. If you have experienced similar spoofing in Iraq or elsewhere, or have any guidelines or procedures to combat spoofing (as opposed to regular GPS jamming), please let us know: team@ops.group
20-Sep A ceasefire between Armenia and Azerbaijan has been agreed today, Sep 20, coordinated by Russia, with further talks set for tomorrow. However, new Notams have been issued by the UBBA/Baku FIR: cross-border waypoints VETEN, PEMAN, ELSIV and MATAL are closed likely due to military operations below. East and westbound traffic must route via ADEKI instead (Georgian airspace, the UGGG/Tbilisi FIR).
19-Sep Renewed conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan looks increasingly likely. Military operations are underway in the border zone today, and there have been some reports that Azerbaijan has closed its airspace to flights from Armenia - although no Notams have been published on this. While there has been no change to state-issued warnings, most operators are actively avoiding. East-west overflights should consider routing via Georgian airspace (the UGGG/Tbilisi FIR) to the north instead.
19-Sep There’s been another drone attack in northern Iraq. This one was a suspected Turkish drone that targeted a military airport near ORSU/Sulaimaniya. Drone attacks from Turkey and Iran are common in northern Iraq, which could place civil aircraft at risk - especially at ORSU and ORER airports. But also watch out for overflights of the ORBB/Baghdad FIR on the border with Turkey’s LTAA/Ankara FIR, where the airspace is basically closed up to FL330 due to live firing.
18-Sep There have been several recent attacks by rebel groups against military targets across the country. In one attack, a makeshift drone dropped bombs on aircraft hangars at an airbase next to VYNT/Naypyitaw airport. The security situation in Myanmar has deteriorated since the military coup in Feb 2021 - there is conflict across many parts of the country, involving air strikes and armed clashes.
15-Sep The US FAA has extended its ban on flights in North Korea's ZKKP/Pyongyang FIR, including the oceanic part over the Sea of Japan, to Sep 2028. This is due to continuing risks to aviation: unannounced missile launches and risk from falling debris, and North Korea’s military capabilities and activities. The FAA’s updated SFAR has a good level of detail of recent activity in the region, plus analysis of the associated risk.
12-Sep There was a shootout near Terminal 1 on Sep 12. Police were investigating alleged robberies happening in the customs area when it all went down. This follows recent news that the military are being used in various ground roles to improve the security situation at the airport - be mindful of crew safety there including protecting your luggage and reporting any suspicious behaviour or demands to authorities. 
11-Sep Germany is considering a flight ban in Mali - they say the security situation is getting worse in the Northern half of the country, and there are threats to civil aviation below FL260. Fighting by militants is escalating. Commercial flights to GATB/Tombouctou are currently cancelled after shelling near the airport on Sep 11. A military jet also crashed near GAGO/Gao on the same day - there were unconfirmed reports it was shot down. This follows a closure on Sep 8 due to explosions and gunfire near the airport. Several states continue to advise against low level ops in Mali due to these kinds of risks. See safeairspace.net for a full briefing.
11-Sep Fighting by militants is escalating. Commercial flights to GATB/Tombouctou are currently cancelled after shelling near the airport on September 11. A military jet also crashed near GAGO/Gao on the same day - there were unconfirmed reports it was shot down. This follows a closure on September 8 due to explosions and gunfire near the airport. Several states continue to advise against low level ops in Mali due to these kinds of risks. See safeairspace.net for a full briefing.
11-Sep There’s an ongoing customs strike at the airport. Delays in processing are set to continue until Sep 13 - possibly longer if no agreement is made. Picketing is expected so use standard security precautions for crew security -  avoid any crowds, and allow extra time for sign on.
10-Sep The airport closed temporarily on Sep 8 due to an attack on a military base next to the field. Explosions and gunfire were reported. Several countries currently advise operators to avoid GAGO, GATB and GAKL airports due to ongoing fighting and militant activity. Safeairspace.net has more info.
06-Sep An OPSGROUP member reported intermittent GPS jamming over Myanmar’s VYYF/Yangon FIR - the first we’ve heard of this happening here. The jamming occurred on airway N895, from roughly abeam VYYY/Yangon airport til close to the VTBB/Bangkok FIR. This airway, along with a handful of others, transit Myanmar’s airspace and are used for flights over the Bay of Bengal connecting airports in South East Asia with those in India and beyond. If you experience similar jamming here, please let us know: news@ops.group.
05-Sep The UK FCO has reported that there was an attack by armed rebels on some infrastructure at HBBA/Bujumbura airport on Sep 2. Two civilians were killed during the exchange of fire. From the rebel group’s statement, it sounds like they targeted the localizer, but no new Notams have been published warning of any damage or outages. This is the first attack here by rebel groups since Sep 2021, when mortar attacks were launched against the airport.
04-Sep Eurocontrol advises GNSS signal loss or interference is possible throughout the EVRR/Riga FIR from Sept 4-15 due to military exercises. No other details have been given. If you encounter this problem, please report it. You can reach us on news@ops.group.
04-Sep Niger’s airspace has officially reopened for the first time since early August, following a military coup in July. DRRR Notam A1096/23 states the Niamey FIR is now available at all levels - as long as your transponder stays on. Security on the ground is still a problem. The US continues to advise against all travel there.
04-Sep Air borders have reportedly been reopened following last week’s coup. From a security standpoint, not much has changed though - the situation is still volatile, and scheduled carriers continue to avoid landing at FOOL/Libreville. Military action by neighbouring countries is still a possibility at short notice. We’re continuing to monitor the situation closely.
30-Aug An attempted coup is underway. A military group has reportedly seized power and closed the country’s air borders, following a contested election. Heavy gunfire has been heard in the capital, Libreville. FOOL/Libreville airport has yet to publish any new Notams.
30-Aug OPSGROUP member report of GPS spoofing over Iraq airspace. Event started in the northern region of Erbil. Crew lost navigational integrity over nearly the entire crossing of the ORBB/Baghdad FIR due to enroute high altitude GPS spoofing (falsified position, not jammed as usual). Aircraft then entered full degrade. GPS was 60NM offset, the IRS were considered unreliable. Crews observed 3 or more aircraft affected. ATC was unaware according to crew. Situation was resolved by receiving radar vectors by ATC to fly along the airway.
24-Aug There was another launch attempt of a satellite on August 23, but it failed. It is the second time this year. Debris fell into the Yellow Sea, Sea of Japan and the Pacific. Unlike ballistic missile tests, North Korean space launches create risk far beyond the ZKKP/Pyongyang FIR. For a full briefing on this emerging danger, see our recent article (attached).
15-Aug A mass evacuation of aircraft is taking place at the moment from Tripoli, including a number of A330 and A320 aircraft from both the largest carrier (Afriqiyah) and smaller operators. Inbound flights are also diverting, and the Libyan government aircraft, a King Air 350, is also being taken out of Tripoli. Almost all aircraft are being repositioned to Misrata (HLMS) - with approximately 25 aircraft being moved.

The reason for the evacuation is violent clashes involving gunfire taking place at Tripoli Mitiga airport (HLLM), as well as on roads leading into Tripoli itself. Earlier on Monday night the head of the '444 brigade' that controls much of Tripoli, was detained at Mitiga airport by the Special Deterrence Force. The resulting risk to aircraft operations was deemed sufficiently high to begin the removal of aircraft to a safer location.

This situation highlights the instability of the security situation in Libya. With the airspace closure in Niger last week, routes over Africa have become very limited, and Libya/the Tripoli FIR may seem a tempting alternative. Operators considering a Libya overflight should consider routings very carefully. This is the most significant aviation security event in Libya in the last few years, and highlights the ongoing risk to operations. Refer to safeairspace.net/libya for the background, and ops.group/blog/2023-is-libya-safe-to-overfly-yet for more information.
13-Aug Unusually strong solar flares are predicted in the coming days. Interruptions in HF communications and GPS equipment are possible. Real time impacts can be hard to predict - keep an eye out for new space weather advisories via the attached link.
12-Aug OPSGROUP member report on MSSS/San Salvador: The runway, as well as the taxiways and ramp, are in very poor condition at present. Not suitable for jet aircraft. MSSS is the domestic airport which accepts intl flights but mainly caters to GA - the international MSLP is fine.
11-Aug The closure of Niger airspace at all levels has been extended again until August 28, but this date is effectively now rolling. The security situation there remains unpredictable - a military operation by neighbouring countries could happen at short notice. See our recent article for more info.
09-Aug At least two drones were shot down near Moscow on August 9 - the second attack this week. These are becoming frequent. Air defence activity can put civil aircraft at extra risk along with causing unexpected delays or diversions. See safeairspace.net for a full briefing.
09-Aug The closure of Niger airspace at all levels has been extended until at least August 10, likely longer (DRRR Notam A1011/23 refers). There has been no change to the situation, and a military operation by neighbouring countries is still possible at short notice. See our recent article for more info (attached).
08-Aug Ongoing taxi driver strikes have turned violent. On August 7, at least two people were killed on the airport road during a blockade. Disruption is expected to continue as talks have broken down. Earlier this week, the UK FCO issued a warning to check your route to and from the airport before travelling. If necessary, delay your commute and avoid any large crowds.
06-Aug Flights were temporarily suspended again on August 6, while air defences destroyed more drones targeting Moscow. This is becoming a frequent occurrence. The danger to overflights remains low, but those operating in and out of the Moscow area may be exposed to extra risk right now. Short notice delays or diversions are likely to continue. See safeairspace.net for more info.
06-Aug Widespread protests are likely in the coming days, following the jailing of a high-profile political figure on August 5. These have recently included roadblocks and large crowds which can put crew at risk. General advice includes staying in hotels near the airport, and monitoring the US Embassy website for live security updates.
06-Aug The UK FCO has issued a warning (attached) that the commute to and from the airport may be affected by political protests in the near term. These have potential to become violent. It is recommended to check your planned route before you travel, and wait if there are any issues.
04-Aug Fighting has broken out between the military and local militia in the Amhara region - a large portion of Northwestern Ethiopia which borders Sudan. Carriers have been cancelling flights to HAGN/Gondar, while HALL/Lalibela is reportedly under the control of the rebels. No new Notams have been published by the HAAA/Addis FIR, however several states including the US and UK have issued new security warnings to avoid the region completely.
03-Aug At least seven weaponized drones were destroyed by air defences near Moscow on August 3. It is the latest in a series of strikes on the capital in recent weeks - occasionally closing airports for short periods of time. While the danger to overflights remains low, air defence activity can put aircraft at extra risk. See safeairspace.net for a full briefing.
02-Aug Military helicopters reportedly infringed the EPWW/Warsaw FIR near the border with Belarus on August 1 at low level. This has resulted in more military presence on the Polish side which may increase risk to civil aircraft, including by misidentification. Eastern overflights should be keeping a close eye on things, along with giving the Belarussian border a wide berth.
02-Aug There was another bombing on August 1 right next to the airport - the second in the area in a week. Both appear to have been the work of a terrorist group. There are several security concerns in the HCSM/Mogadishu FIR - especially when considering diversions in the Class A airspace above. Safeairspace.net has more info.
01-Aug Widespread reports of gunfire on Aug 1 near an airbase adjacent to DFFD/Ouagadougou airport (which is also used by the military). It’s not clear why shots were being fired. The incident comes 10 months after a military coup in Burkina Faso, and less than a week after a coup in neighbouring Niger. Several states maintain ‘Do Not Travel’ advisories for Burkina Faso due to security issues - avoid stops here.
31-Jul A nationwide state of emergency has been extended for another six months following a military coup back in 2021. This is an issue as it will delay elections again and possibly trigger a fresh round of civil unrest and fighting. Last time, resistance groups targeted infrastructure at VYYY/Yangon several times with rockets and artillery. The risk of repeat attacks has increased. Continue to monitor the US Embassy website for security updates.
31-Jul The airspace closure in the HSSS/Khartoum FIR has been further extended. The airspace over Sudan is closed to all flights until Aug 16. The airspace over South Sudan has no ATC above FL245 until Sep 1, but there are some contingency routes available here above FL245 to help with east-west flights - check the HSSS Notams and the Contingency Plan in the link for details. There are no obvious improvements in the situation to report, so these dates should be considered rolling.
30-Jul Several drones were destroyed by air defences over Moscow on July 30 - the latest in a series of strikes on the capital in the past few weeks. A long range missile was also destroyed at Taganrog, a city on the Black Sea Coast near the border with Ukraine on July 29. These types of events are becoming more frequent inside Russian airspace - air defence activity can put civil aircraft at extra risk. See safeairspace.net for a full briefing.
27-Jul Heavy gunfire was reported near the US Embassy on July 26, a stone’s throw from MTPP/Port-au-Prince. Staff are currently sheltering in place. The Dept of State maintains a ‘do not travel’ warning for Haiti due to the risk of crime and civil unrest. Layovers should be avoided completely - personal security services are essential if you need to leave the airport.
27-Jul The UAE CAA has published a new safety alert for the HCSM/Mogadishu FIR. There was a recent near collision at a common level in controlled Class A airspace, where an aircraft was required to take evasive action. ATC did not provide any traffic info either before or after the event. They recommend extra vigilance and a risk assessment before using this airspace.
26-Jul There’s a possible coup attempt underway in Niger. Troops have blocked access to the presidential palace and ministerial offices. There’s not much info beyond that at present. No shots have been fired, roads remain open, and the US Embassy has said the city is calm. DRRN/Niamey airport has not provided any updates via Notam or social media so far.
25-Jul The US FAA has published a new SFAR for Afghanistan which amends its airspace warning for the country. US operators are now permitted to overfly the OAKX/Kabul FIR at FL320 and above (previously, flights were only allowed on airways P500/G500 in the east of the country). However, Afghanistan remains uncontrolled Class G airspace, and security on the ground is still a major problem - so we continue to recommend that the OAKX/Kabul FIR should be avoided.
24-Jul Protestors blocked access to the airport on July 24, heavily affecting traffic. Police have been deployed to help people reach the terminals. Allow extra time for the commute and avoid the crowds as they may be forcibly removed.
24-Jul There was an explosion a short distance from the airport on July 24, with several casualties. Al Shabaab has claimed responsibility for the attack. Security remains the big issue for anyone operating at airports throughout the HCSM/Mogadishu FIR - take extra care to consider the safety of diversions if using the now permanent Class A airspace above.
24-Jul There was another drone strike on targets in Moscow on July 24, which reportedly damaged two buildings. This follows an attack earlier this month which temporarily closed UUWW/Vnukovo airport. For the limited traffic still using Russian airspace, be prepared for short notice disruptions if air defence activity takes place - especially near the capital.
24-Jul Several cruise missiles were launched on July 22, which landed in the Yellow Sea. No prior airspace warnings were issued. North Korea has been particularly active in recent months with several other launches reported, along with a threat to shoot down surveillance aircraft in their airspace. Take extra care if operating in or near the ZKKP/Pyongyang FIR at this time. Safeairspace.net has more info.
21-Jul The airport has downgraded its RFF fire cover to cat 5, due to some fire trucks being out of service. Notam A0880/23 estimates end of July for a fix, but this might get extended. Air Niugini has cancelled flights until the issue is sorted.
21-Jul Environmental activists from the Futuro Vegetal group briefly disrupted ops at LEMD/Madrid in the early hours of this morning. Runway 32 had to be closed for a short time whilst authorities removed the activists from the runway. This was the same group who threw paint all over a private jet at LEIB/Ibiza airport on July 14, closing the runway for several hours. This activity is all intended to make a splash in the run-up to elections in Spain on July 23, so there’s a chance we might see similar action at other Spanish airports between now and then.
20-Jul Be careful of continued civil unrest in cities, including Nairobi. Anti-government protests will continue until at least July 21. This follows several fatal shootings by police last week who are accused of using excessive force. There have also been reports of looting and other crimes. We advise crew to stay near the airport, avoid any crowds and monitor the US Embassy website for any security updates.
19-Jul There has been another aircraft shooting at an airstrip in the Papua Region of Indonesia. This time after a light passenger aircraft had landed. The area has a recent history of militants specifically targeting aviation interests at low level. Safety and security remains a major concern there. See safeairspace.net for more info.
18-Jul Member report on the GNSS outages at MMMX: We assume it's a radio beacon which unintentionally disturbs the GNSS signal. According to our flight data analysis it's on every approach on runways 05 L/R. So just expect the outage with all usual system failures. Check our article for more info.
18-Jul The Nigerian CAA has reported several recent incidents of water contamination in jet fuel - including a Boeing 737 which became airborne with the problem. They’ve issued an urgent directive to airports and operators after proper procedures haven’t been followed. No specific airports have been mentioned. If possible, it may be safer to tanker right now.
18-Jul Due to an unauthorised drone operating nearby, flights at ORER/Erbil and ORSU/Sulaimaniyah were briefly suspended on July 17. A reminder that the ORBB/Baghdad FIR is an active conflict zone. Short notice disruptions including active fighting and air defence activity are likely at all times. US operators remain banned below FL320. See safeairspace.net for more.
17-Jul An airline pilot has been held at gunpoint and stabbed after leaving secure accommodation in Johannesburg - the Melrose Arch area. The US Dept of State advises that there is a high risk of violent crime in South Africa, especially in city centres. Areas around hotels are often targeted.
17-Jul The UK FCO advises that widespread political protests are planned for July 19, including Lima. Previous ones have proved quite disruptive and can lead to short notice airport closures and other crew security issues such as roadblocks. It may be a good idea to avoid city centers and use accommodation near the airport if on layover during this period.
14-Jul Climate activists caused big disruptions at EDDH/Hamburg and EDDL/Düsseldorf on July 13 after they cut their way through fences and glued themselves to active runways. Some flights were forced to divert.
13-Jul Thieves have stolen the newly installed PAPI lights for Runway 18L. There is now a Notam out advising they are (obviously) U/S until at least early October. DNMM Notam A0167/23 refers.
12-Jul North Korea launched another missile on July 12 without prior notice. It landed in the sea west of Japan. The launch comes after North Korea threatened to actively shoot down reconnaissance aircraft in their airspace.
12-Jul Protestors blocked access to the airport with burning debris on July 11. The fuss is over a pay dispute for recent renovation work at the field. As the issue hasn’t been resolved, it’s likely there may be more to come. Official security advice is to avoid any crowds, and allow extra time for the commute to and from.
11-Jul North Korea is threatening to actively shoot down reconnaissance aircraft in their airspace. This seems to coincide with a NATO political summit this week. Authorities are taking the threat seriously. North Korea is suspected of having advanced anti-aircraft weaponry capable of reaching all levels. This may put civil aviation at higher risk of mistaken identity in or near the ZKKP/Pyongyang FIR boundary at the current time.
11-Jul Be mindful of crew security if overnighting in Suva. The US Embassy has issued a new warning for recent assault and robberies in main tourist areas, especially at night. They recommend using taxis door-to-door, and don’t share them with people you don’t know. You can find their full alert attached.
11-Jul The Government is about to deploy the military to run all ground staff duties (not just security) at MMMX/Mexico City airport after a recent spate of various crimes including stolen luggage and smuggling. The plan is to extend this to nearly a dozen more Mexican airports in the coming year in an effort to tackle corruption.
10-Jul An official report shows that military aircraft infringements of Taiwan’s Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) are at an all time high. The majority are to the northwest of the country over the Taiwan Strait. In many cases these are leading to interceptions. It is important to continue to follow the proper ADIZ procedures at all times if operating in this airspace, especially as tensions are currently on the rise.
10-Jul Anti-government protests are planned for the airport on July 11 over incoming changes to the justice system. This follows previous protests on July 3 which caused skirmishes with police and almost completely blocked public access to the international terminal. If they go ahead, expect delays and disruptions. For crew security, avoid any crowds.
10-Jul There was a major airstrike in Khartoum on July 8, less than 5 nm from HSSK/Khartoum airport. Mass casualties have been reported. It is the latest in continued fighting since a military coup back in April, and things aren’t improving. The airspace over Sudan is closed to all flights, and the airspace over South Sudan has no ATC above FL245. For a full briefing, see our recent article.
07-Jul Fresh report of GPS jamming by an OPSGROUP member on July 1. The signal was completely lost on a full crossing of the Black Sea from Northeastern Turkey (LTAA/Ankara FIR) into Eastern Bulgaria (LBSR/Sofia FIR). See the attached for more info on this hazard.
07-Jul If you’re overnighting on July 7, we recommend staying near the airport. The US Embassy has warned that there are nationwide demonstrations planned which may include road closures and large crowds throughout the country. This can create security concerns for crew, so it’s best to give the gatherings a wide berth.
06-Jul Four countries are taking Iran to the UN court over the the shootdown of UIA flight 752 over Tehran in Jan 2020. Part of their allegations is that Iran has still not provided sufficient evidence that measures are now in place to prevent this kind of incident from happening again. In other words, there remains a risk of misident by air defence systems in Iranian airspace, especially in times of heightened tensions.
05-Jul Air defences destroyed at least five rockets in Southern Israel on July 5. They likely came from Gaza. This follows an errant surface-to-air missile that exploded inside Northern Israeli airspace on July 2. In both cases there were no disruptions reported at LLBG/Tel Aviv, but aircraft using the LLLL/Tel Aviv FIR need to remain prepared for short notice closures or reroutes at all times. Safeairspace.net has more info.
04-Jul Few are flying to Russia right now, but just in case you are… flights in and out of Moscow’s UUWW/Vnukovo airport were suspended this morning due to a drone attack on the city. Russian authorities have reported that four drones were shot down by air defences, while a fifth was jammed and crashed into an apartment building. Russia has blamed Ukraine for the attack.
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