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02 Oct
Risk summary updated: Iran launched a series of missiles at Israel on Oct 1. Most airlines now avoiding LLBG/Tel Aviv. As of Sep 28, EASA is recommending against flights to Israel.
24 Jan
Risk summary updated: Crash of military transport aircraft in Russian airspace near Belgarod, approx 20nm from the Ukrainian border. Both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of shooting it down.
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.
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.
28 Feb
Country summary updated to reflect flight bans issued by several countries due to risk from military conflict.
17 Feb
Country summary updated: Added info on spillover risks from the conflict in Ukraine including Russian drone and missile strikes.
XMID /
04-Oct
Two of the UAE's major carriers have announced they have cancelled all flights to Iraq, Jordan and Iran on October 4 and 5. This appears to be in response to the potential for further military action between Israel and Iran - it’s not clear whether any additional information has led them to make this decision.
OIZZ / Iran
03-Oct
The UK has updated its airspace warning for the OIIX/Tehran FIR. It now warns operators not to enter due to risks from anti-aircraft weaponry and military activity at all levels (EGTT Notam V0037/24 refers). This supersedes the info the UK AIP which only advises against flight below FL250. See safeairspace.net for more info.
OIZZ / Iran
02-Oct
The SafeAirspace level for Iran is now at Level 1 - Do Not Fly. There are multiple risks including a potential response from Israel to the Oct 1 missile attack, misidentification, and short-notice changes to the geopolitical situation. On Oct 2, EASA issued a new Conflict Zone Information Bulletin (CZIB) recommending operators avoid Iranian airspace, and Germany also issued a new airspace warning with the same advice. See full briefing at safeairspace.net.
XMID /
02-Oct
Israel, Jordan, and Iraq have all re-opened their airspace following last night’s Iranian missile attack on Israel. Iran remains closed to all transits across its western border (Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar). The en-route traffic situation has now largely returned to normal with the exception of Israel and Iran, which most continue to avoid - Iran in particular has a heightened risk of misidentification or interception for overflights at the moment. Middle East transits should consider going south via Egypt/Saudi instead. For full details, map, and analysis see the Special Briefing in your members dashboard.
OIZZ / Iran
01-Oct
Iran has effectively closed its airspace, likely in anticipation of retaliatory attacks by Israel. A large southwestern portion of the OIIX/Tehran FIR is closed by Notam (OIIE A3607/24) while all major airports across the country are shut until at least Oct 2 - including OIIE/Tehran. All transits to/from Bahrain, Iraq and Qatar are not allowed. Any overflights would be at high risk of misidentification or interception.
EDVK / Kassel Germany
01-Oct
The climate group Last Generation is planning to demonstrate in the city center on Oct 2 and 5 over government investment in the airport. The airport itself has not been mentioned as a specific target this time, but the same group defaced airport buildings and glued themselves to the pavement near the entrance just a few of weeks ago. Avoid leaving aircraft unattended near perimeter fences - if practical, extra security for this period would be worth considering.
XMID /
01-Oct
Russia has now banned its carriers from entering Iraq, Iran and Israeli airspace at all levels for a week (Oct 1 - 8) due to the ongoing situation there. UUUU Notam A6766/24 refers. See safeairspace.net for a full summary of all existing state-issued airspace advisories.
XMID /
01-Oct
Israeli military are reporting that the Iranian attack on Israel has concluded. At approximately 1645 UTC Iran launched a series of missiles at Israel, 150-200 in total. A large number made surface contact in Israel. The missiles were observed transiting the Tehran FIR (Iran), and the Amman FIR (Jordan). Jordan (OJAC A0367/24 at 1658Z) and Iraq (ORBB A0422/24 at 1735Z) have closed their airspace by Notam. Israeli airspace was closed during the attack, and is now open again, though EASA and state warnings are active recommending avoidance. Iraq plans to reopen their airspace at 2100Z, as per Notam A0423/23. Turnbacks and diversions are widespread and currently ongoing, especially in the south-east of Ankara FIR (LTAA) and the eastern Mediterranean. LCLK/Larnaca is noted busy with a lot of diversion traffic. Iran has published a series of temporary airway Notams, with a minimum safe level of FL245. These were also noted in the April 2024 Iran missile attack on Israel. Eurocontrol NM will hold a Telecon on the situation in approximately 40 minutes, at 1845Z. For full details, map, and analysis see Special Briefing in your members dashboard: https://ops.group/dashboard/briefings/middle-east-israel-october-2024/
OJZZ / Jordan
01-Oct
The Amman FIR (Jordan) is now closed until further notice. Notam A0367/24 at 1658Z.
XMID /
01-Oct
A major missile attack has been launched against Israel in the last few minutes. At present the entire country is under a missile warning. Reuters report missiles seen overflying Jordanian airspace, and Israeli military have made a public announcement that Iran has fired large numbers of missiles at Israel. Separately, missiles have been seen flying above the Iranian capital, Tehran. There are no Notams covering the developing situation, but it does appear that Middle Eastern airspace will be heavily impacted as things progress. Further updates will follow.
ORZZ / Iraq
01-Oct
Some rockets were fired near ORBI/Baghdad airport early on Oct 1, as US forces begin their withdrawal from the country. This incident follows a similar attack last month on a US-operated logistics centre near the airport. Several countries have long-standing airspace warnings for Iraq, including the US which prohibits US operators from overflying the ORBB/Baghdad FIR below FL320 due to risks posed by military activity, and terrorist attacks against airports.
XMID /
01-Oct
Israel has sent troops into Southern Lebanon. So far the offensive is limited to Hezbollah targets near the border, but the situation is still developing. Several crossing routes in northern portions of the LLLL/Tel Aviv FIR are closed at all levels by Notam. At time of writing, there are no updates to report from the OLBB/Beirut FIR. Lebanon’s national carrier Middle East Airlines is now the only airline still operating to and from OLBA/Beirut Airport.
XMID /
30-Sep
With the significant escalation in the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon over the past 48 hours, a more wide-scale conflict is looking increasingly likely. Israel have hinted that this may include a ground offensive. The risk to flights in both the LLLL/Tel Aviv and OLBB/Beirut FIRs has quickly changed. On Sep 28, EASA issued new Conflict Zone Information Bulletins (CZIB) for Israel and Lebanon, recommending not to operate within the airspace of either country at all flight levels. Check Safeairspace.net for latest updates.
OLZZ / Lebanon
29-Sep
France has issued a new airspace warning for the OLBB/Beirut FIR. They are recommending all aircraft avoid overflying Lebanese airspace at all levels, or operating in and out of OLBA/Beirut airport. LFFF Notam F1382/24 refers. This is consistent with EASA’s new advice to avoid overflights of both Lebanon and Israel due to the rapid escalation of fighting there. See safeairspace.net for a full briefing.
XMID /
28-Sep
There has been further significant escalation in the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon over the past 24 hours, with continued airstrikes in Beirut. The Israeli military have claimed that the Hezbollah leader was killed in an overnight strike.
EASA is now recommending not to operate within the airspace of Israel and Lebanon at all flight levels. They have issued new Conflict Zone Information Bulletins (CZIB) for each country effective today, Sep 28.
None of the other countries who regularly publish airspace warnings (US, UK, Germany, France, Canada, etc) have issued updated airspace warnings yet for either Israel or Lebanon.
There are several long-standing airspace warnings for Lebanon, but the EASA CZIB for Israel is something new. Now that EASA have clearly stated that flights should not operate here, warnings from other countries may follow. Check Safeairspace.net for the latest updates.
EASA is now recommending not to operate within the airspace of Israel and Lebanon at all flight levels. They have issued new Conflict Zone Information Bulletins (CZIB) for each country effective today, Sep 28.
None of the other countries who regularly publish airspace warnings (US, UK, Germany, France, Canada, etc) have issued updated airspace warnings yet for either Israel or Lebanon.
There are several long-standing airspace warnings for Lebanon, but the EASA CZIB for Israel is something new. Now that EASA have clearly stated that flights should not operate here, warnings from other countries may follow. Check Safeairspace.net for the latest updates.
OLZZ / Lebanon
25-Sep
Both the US and UK Governments have now issued warnings advising citizens to leave. The outbreak of a war between Israel and Hezbollah is looking increasingly likely. Major carriers are cancelling flights there. Airstrikes across Lebanon have been reported throughout the week. We maintain a ‘Do Not Fly’ warning for the OLBB/Beirut FIR where aircraft are at significant risk from military activity at all levels - see safeairspace.net for a full briefing.
OLZZ / Lebanon
24-Sep
Israel carried out a major series of airstrikes on Hezbollah targets, including in Beirut on Sep 23. Several major carriers have suspended flights there. A sustained conflict between Israel and Hezbollah looks increasingly likely. Military activity can put civil aircraft at increased risk of misidentification - especially near the Israel/Lebanon border. We maintain a ‘Do Not Fly’ risk warning for the OLBB/Beirut FIR - several state issued airspace warnings remain in place. See safeairspace.net for a full briefing.
HCMM / Mogadishu Somalia
23-Sep
Multiple mortar rounds landed near the southern end of the airport on Sep 20. A military base was the target. The airport has a recent history of these kinds of events. The Somali Government has previously issued warnings that groups such as Al Shabaab may actively target aviation interests there. Aircraft using the Class A airspace above need to be aware of the safety risks of an unplanned landing. Safeairspace.net has more.
XMID /
22-Sep
Israel carried out airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon over the weekend, including some in Beirut. This followed well publicised reports of explosions last week. Hezbollah responded with at least one hundred rockets fired into Northern Israel on Sep 22. There is renewed concern that a sustained conflict is now likely. Aircraft operating near the shared border may be at increased risk from military activity. Short notice airspace closures of the LLLL/Tel Aviv and OLBB/Beirut FIRs are also possible if fighting continues to escalate.
SBGR / Sao Paulo Brazil
20-Sep
Opsgroup member report advising caution regarding take-off data: Sometimes the ATIS is not updated regularly, and you can find yourself calculating performance with outdated data. For our recent departure, the ATIS was the same for two hours, and finally about to taxi we had a runway change with totally different weather data. So we were suddenly around 3 tonnes overweight. There is a big difference between Runway 10 and 28 regarding performance for take off. We usually try to carry as much cargo as possible, but that’s for Runway 10. You can find yourself too heavy for Runway 28, including having to return to gate to unload.
GVZZ / Cape Verde
20-Sep
There are secret runway closures at both GVAC/Sal and GNVP/Praia that don’t show up anywhere you would expect them to - like the Notams, for example! Basically the runways at both airports are closed weekday mornings, at GNVP until 30 Nov 24, and at GVAC potentially until Aug 2025. The closure times are slightly different each day. The info only seems to show up in the NavData Change Notices, as it’s now already buried in the AIP. But for any ops involving GVAC or GVNP you’ll likely be missing a bunch of Notams - so make sure you check the Cape Verde official page, as pretty much all the Notams they publish there don’t seem to make it onto the FAA feed or anywhere else you might be checking.
OLZZ / Lebanon
19-Sep
Lebanon’s CAA has announced a ban on pagers and walkie-talkies aboard civil aircraft until further notice. This follows a number of high-profile explosions in recent days and applies to both carry-on, checked luggage and cargo. There’s been no actual reports of any aviation-related incidents as a result of these events.
GMMX / Marrakech Morocco
19-Sep
Workers are planning to protest at the airport on Sep 21 over pay and conditions. They intend to hold a car march which may limit or block access to the airport. Unfortunately the group responsible hasn’t announced any specific timings.
GABS / Bamako Mali
19-Sep
The military have said the security situation is back under control after insurgents broke into the airport and set the presidential jet alight on Sep 17. Several other locations were targeted across the city, and the airport temporarily closed following the terrorist attacks - the first in years to hit Bamako. There are several long-standing airspace warnings for Mali, advising caution at all flight levels due to deteriorating security on the ground, ongoing fighting, terrorist activity, and foreign private military presence with advanced air defense systems.
LLZZ / Israel
15-Sep
Air defences were active over the weekend. On Sep 15, a long range ballistic missile fired by Houthi rebels in Yemen was intercepted over central Israel. Fighting was also reported in the far north with a large number of Hezbollah rockets fired across the border. Ops at LLBG/Tel Aviv briefly stopped. These events do not present a significant change to overflight risk in the LLLL/Tel Aviv FIR but are a reminder to be prepared for short notice airspace closures at all times. See safeairspace.net for a full risk briefing.
NWWW / Noumea New Caledonia
15-Sep
Update on ops. Civil unrest is still being reported in the capital, and restrictions were tightened again last week. This has been an ongoing issue since riots effectively shut the country down back in May. The airport itself is open and operating without restrictions but layovers should be avoided due to crew safety in the capital.
HEZZ / Egypt
13-Sep
The UK has renewed its airspace warnings for the Red Sea and Gulf of Aqaba: operators should use extra caution due to increased military activity in the area. Spillover risks in the region from the conflict in Gaza/Israel continue to be present. See safeairspace.net for more info.
ZKZZ / North Korea
12-Sep
North Korea launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles on Sep 11 which landed in the Sea of Japan. As per usual, no airspace warnings were issued in advance. It was the first public weapons firing in more than two months and may indicate an intention to resume them on a regular basis. This can put aircraft operating in or near the ZKKP/Pyongyang FIR at increased risk from falling debris. Safeairspace.net has more info.
MTZZ / Haiti
11-Sep
The FAA has extended its airspace warning for Haiti, which says that operators should talk to ATC directly for the current status of airports, given ongoing civil unrest and security risks. Gangs continue to control much of the capital and the US still advises against all travel to the country. For flights, crew security cannot be guaranteed.
HKZZ / Kenya
10-Sep
There are no longer any official airspace warnings for Kenya. The US warning advising caution below FL260 in the border region with Somalia expired in Feb 2023, and the long-standing UK warning advising against low-level flights across the HKNA/Nairobi FIR expired in Sep 2024.
HEZZ / Egypt
10-Sep
The UK has cancelled its long-standing airspace warning for Egypt, as well as the more recent Notams warning of increased risk over the Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea due to the conflict in Israel/Gaza. So now, the only remaining official airspace warning for Egypt is published by Germany, advising against overflights below FL260 in the northern part of the Sinai region.
ESSA / Stockholm Sweden
10-Sep
The airport was closed for two hours on Sep 9 after a drone was seen over a runway. The police suspect it was a deliberate act of sabotage, but haven’t caught whoever was responsible yet. An investigation is underway.
EZZZ / Europe
09-Sep
Russia carried out a major drone strike on Ukraine on Sep 7. Airspace infringements were reported in both Latvia and Romania. This follows similar events in Poland in recent weeks. Spillover risks from the conflict in adjacent airspace are becoming more frequent. When active, air defence activity may put aircraft operating in open airspace at increased risk from misidentification. The safest option is to route well clear of the Ukrainian and Belarusian borders in all adjacent FIRs.
HCMM / Mogadishu Somalia
09-Sep
There were a series of mortar attacks in areas near the airport on Sep 8. This follows an attack by Al-Shabaab at a nearby beach a few days prior. The security situation here is bleak at best - high profile locations are often targeted including aviation interests. Overflights using the Mogadishu FIR’s Class A airspace above need to be aware of the substantial risks of an unplanned landing. Safeairspace.net has more.
XPAC /
08-Sep
NOPAC routes between the US and Asia will be impacted by a Russian rocket launch between September 9-11. A section of oceanic airspace southeast of the Kamchatka Peninsula will be closed from surface to FL500 each day between 01-18z (PAZA Notam 0962/24 refers). Both the Anchorage and Fukuoka FIRs have issued revised routes for these times for both east and westbound traffic. For that info see PAZA Notams A0963 and RJJJ Q2307.
OJZZ / Jordan
05-Sep
Jordan has reduced its traffic fuel advisory for all aircraft in the OJAC/Amman FIR to thirty minutes (from forty-five). The extra gas is a contingency measure due to a chance of sudden airspace closure in event of military offensives in the region. It appears the situation has stabilised enough for the fuel requirement to be lowered, but not enough to get rid of it completely. OJAC Notam A0305/24 refers.
HCZZ / Somalia
03-Sep
Ongoing issue in Somalia of aircraft being contacted and given conflicting instructions by fake ATC. There’s an updated HCSM/Mogadishu FIR Notam which clarifies the area in the northern half of the country (i.e. where all these issues have been happening) where Mogadishu ATC (i.e. the real ATC) will only issue level change instructions to aircraft via CPDLC or SATCOM. Bottom line, if you’re overflying up north and get a call on the radio, ignore it. For the full background to all this, check safeairspace.net
EDZZ / Germany
01-Sep
Germany authorities have warned aviation companies after several incendiary devices were sent in parcels in recent weeks, and started fires while in transit to other European countries. This appears malicious, and the parcels were sent via a mainstream freight service provider who has beefed up screening as a result. It’s possible there may still be some in circulation.
EDZZ / Germany
29-Aug
Multiple climate activist groups are planning demonstrations in Munich from Aug 31 - Sep 1. Aviation has not been mentioned as a specific target, however ‘Last Generation’ is involved who have previously targeted airports this summer. Take special care at EDDM/Munich when leaving an aircraft unattended, and consider parking away from perimeter fences.
OAZZ / Afghanistan
27-Aug
Canada have issued a new Notam which amends their airspace warning for Afghanistan. Canadian operators can now overfly any part of the OAKX/Kabul FIR at FL320 or above - they are no longer limited to the P500 and G500 airways in the far east of the country. There’s been no change to the situation in Afghanistan though: there’s no ATC service here at all, overflights must be on specific contingency routes, and there remains an extreme threat to aircraft and crew safety and security on the ground.
EPZZ / Poland
27-Aug
Russia carried out a major drone attack against targets in Ukraine on Aug 26. At least one infringed the EPWW/Warsaw FIR near its southeastern border. Spill-over risks from the conflict continue to be present in Polish airspace where there are no active warnings. Incidents involving errant cruise missiles have also been reported in recent months.
OLZZ / Lebanon
25-Aug
Several major carriers have suspended flights to OLBA/Beirut following the exchange of heavy fire between Israel and Lebanon at the weekend. Existing airspace warnings remain in place for the OLBB/Beirut FIR. Pre-existing airspace warnings issued by the UK and Canada advise operators not to enter at any level due to risks posed by military activity, especially near the border with Israel. See safeairspace.net for a full briefing.
XMID /
25-Aug
In the past 72 hours there have been a series of major changes to GPS Spoofing patterns in the Middle East. Since Saturday morning, instead of the now usual spoofed-to position of OLBA/Beirut, the spoofed-to position has changed to OJAI/Amman Queen Alia (specifically, the midpoint of Runway 08R/26L). Around 1,100 flights have been spoofed to this position in the last 36 hours. However, no significant change to the enroute locations to expect spoofing - these remain the same. Earlier, on Thursday and Friday of the past week, the spoofed-to position had switched to a position in the eastern Mediterranean Sea; that has now stopped. Attached imagery shows the positions of spoofed aircraft in the last 36 hours, with cockpit photos and EFB from a Boeing 777 eastbound enroute. Knowledge of the spoofed-to position is helpful for crews to confirm that spoofing is taking place. See the GPS Spoofing updates page in link for more information.
LLZZ / Israel
25-Aug
Over the weekend, Israel carried out airstrikes in southern Lebanon. These were reportedly to prevent imminent rocket and missile attacks by Hezbollah. LLBG/Tel Aviv airport closed temporarily but has since reopened. Hezbollah then responded with their own strikes. A series of Notams are now in effect until Aug 31, restricting overflights of Israeli airspace between the LCCC/Nicosia and OJAC Amman FIRs and closing a number of airway segments affecting east/west transits of Northern Israel - likely due to ongoing military activity.
FZZZ / Democratic Republic of the Congo
23-Aug
The UK has extended its airspace warning for Congo DRC. It advises operators not to enter the airspace along the border between Congo DRC and Rwanda below 25,000ft AGL, due to the potential risk from anti-aircraft weaponry. So that risk area basically includes a big chunk of airspace to the west of HRYR/Kigali over FZNA/Goma airport.
UUZZ / Russia
22-Aug
Ukraine carried out a major drone strike targeting the Moscow area early on Aug 21. Air defences shot down several just south of the city near UUDD/Domodedovo where ops were briefly suspended, along with UUWW/Vnukovo and UUBW/Zhukovsky airports. It was the largest attack on the capital using drones since the start of the conflict in Ukraine. For a full airspace risk briefing on Russia, see safeairspace.net.
ZZZZ / Worldwide
19-Aug
The World Health Organisation has declared an outbreak of the mpox virus a public health emergency of international concern. The centre of the outbreak is D.R.Congo, with other cases reported in several African countries. So far there has been very little impact to aviation ops - airports in Pakistan and Bangladesh have begun using thermal scanners for pax from badly affected countries and others may soon follow. No aviation specific guidance has been issued by authorities.
EDZZ / Germany
15-Aug
Activists broke into several airports in Germany early on Aug 15 to stage protests: EDDB/Berlin, EDDK/Cologne, EDDN/Nuernberg, and EDDS/Stuttgart. Flights were temporarily suspended at a couple of these, but ops are back to normal now. It looks like Germany might be starting to take this problem more seriously, as the Interior Ministry recently introduced a draft law to increase the punishment for people who trespass at airports.
UKZZ / Ukraine
15-Aug
The Black Sea is one of two major spoofing hotspots at present. This predominantly affects traffic routing Europe-Asia and vv. In a surprise move, Ukraine has taken action directly against the spoofers, who were transmitting from a disused oil rig near Crimea. The Ukrainian Navy destroyed the oil rig, putting an end to this spoofing location. In the past week, we have seen spoofing levels in this area reduce significantly, confirmed by ADS-B data from SkAI and Spirent. The Ukrainian Navy said, “The occupiers used this location for GPS spoofing to endanger civilian navigation. We cannot allow this”. The focus of the spoofing was on maritime vessels, but civilian aircraft receive the same spoofed signals. This does not mean that spoofing is coming to an end in the Black Sea, but this is the first sign of action being taken directly against military spoofing platforms that are causing the GNSS interference issues we are now dealing with. Full spoofing updates are now in the Special Briefing in the OPSGROUP Member Dashboard, see link.
XEUR /
14-Aug
Since Aug 13, a new area of GPS Spoofing has been detected in the very western part of Ukraine, in the vicinity of L'viv (UKLL). Aircraft impacted by the Spoofing encounter have been enroute through Poland (Warsaw FIR), Slovakia (Bratislava FIR), Hungary (Budapest FIR), and Romania (Bucharest FIR). Aircraft types affected in this particular spoof event include Airbus 350, Embraer 195, Airbus 321, and a Boeing 737MAX.
This is a significant development because until now, spoofing on Black Sea routes (which handle most Europe-Asia traffic) had ended by the time westbound aircraft had coasted in over Romania or Bulgaria. Now, it means that spoofing continues to be likely until west of central Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary. This is approx. 450nm or one hours flying later. Equally, eastbound aircraft should now be prepared for spoofing from central Poland onwards. The new spoofing has been confirmed by both Spirent, and SkAI, who monitor these events.
Full details are in a new Special Briefing in your member Dashboard, which now has rolling updates on new GPS Spoofing locations and changes. See link for more.
This is a significant development because until now, spoofing on Black Sea routes (which handle most Europe-Asia traffic) had ended by the time westbound aircraft had coasted in over Romania or Bulgaria. Now, it means that spoofing continues to be likely until west of central Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary. This is approx. 450nm or one hours flying later. Equally, eastbound aircraft should now be prepared for spoofing from central Poland onwards. The new spoofing has been confirmed by both Spirent, and SkAI, who monitor these events.
Full details are in a new Special Briefing in your member Dashboard, which now has rolling updates on new GPS Spoofing locations and changes. See link for more.
EPZZ / Poland
13-Aug
A brief period of large-scale GPS spoofing was detected in Southeastern Poland near Krakow on Aug 13 , and affected at least ten aircraft in the EPWW/Warsaw FIR. ADS-B data incorrectly displayed the aircraft positions as being inside Ukrainian airspace. A long-running warning for GPS interference remains in place for the Warsaw FIR and urges operators to report any issues to ATC.
VGHS / Dhaka Bangladesh
08-Aug
Temporary airport closures have continued in recent days - the latest was Aug 8. The country is in a state of emergency due to political instability and riots. There are significant risks for any crew layovers right now. The US Dept. of State is advising not to go there. Tech stops should have solid contingency plans in place for other options.
VYZZ / Myanmar
08-Aug
A member reports experiencing spoofing in the Yangon FIR (Myanmar), inbound to the Mandalay (MDY) VOR. To date, jamming in this area has been common, but spoofing has not been seen. This may be changing. This crew were first alerted by the autopilot suddenly commencing an uncommanded right turn. EICAS showed "CHECK IRS 1/2/3 position". ATC provided radar vectors. By position AKSAG the situation was resolved, and GPS came back online.
OLZZ / Lebanon
07-Aug
The UK has upgraded its Security Notam for Lebanon to "Do not Enter". The warning reads: AIRSPACE SECURITY WARNING ISSUED BY THE UK DEPARTMENT FOR TRANSPORT. UK REGISTERED AIR OPERATORS ARE RECOMMENDED NOT TO ENTER FIR BEIRUT (OLBB) DUE TO POTENTIAL RISK TO AVIATION FROM MILITARY ACTIVITY. See SafeAirspace.net link for further.
XMID /
07-Aug
Egypt has issued a Notam a short time ago, warning Egyptian carriers not to overfly the Tehran FIR tonight between 0100 and 0400 UTC. The full text of the Notam (HECC A0363/24) reads ALL EGYPTIAN CARRIERS SHALL AVOID OVERFLYING TEHRAN FIR. NO FLIGHT PLAN WILL BE ACCEPTED OVERFLYING SUCH TERRITORY, valid 0100-0400Z. Such a Notam from Egypt is very unusual. It is possible that this is an indicator of an Iranian response to Israel, and in turn a potentially large set of airspace disruptions - at the same time, there may be another reason. We suggest monitoring closely.
VGZZ / Bangladesh
05-Aug
Violent civil unrest has continued in Dhaka. The US Embassy has issued a new alert that the prime minister has fled the country and there will be an interim government formed. VGHS/Dhaka closed for seven hours on August 5 due to protests but has reopened. There are still demonstrators reported on the access road. The situation is unpredictable - more short notice disruptions are expected in the coming days.
XMID /
05-Aug
Update on the Middle East: The situation remains tense, but there has been no activity. A strike by Iran/allies on Israel could happen at any moment with short notice. A series of Notams issued by Iran yesterday has been wrongly reported in the media as the commencement of airspace closures ahead of a strike. See OPSGROUP clarification note. Jordan has extended their “45 minute fuel” NOTAM. Full updates are in the Middle East Briefing in the OPSGROUP Member Dashboard, see link.
ORZZ / Iraq
05-Aug
A new warning has been issued by Notam for GPS jamming and spoofing in the northern portion of the ORBB/Bahdad FIR (Notam A0310/24). Official advice is limited - advise ATC without delay and expect vectors. The risk of GPS interference is likely elevated right now due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East.
XMID /
03-Aug
Update on the Middle East: The situation remains tense: a strike on Israel is expected, but no definite timing. If it does occur, it is likely to happen without much notice.The US is sending the additional Navy cruisers and destroyers – which can shoot down ballistic missiles – to the Middle East and Europe, and the US will also send an additional squadron of fighter jets to the Middle East. KLM has cancelled all flights to Israel until October, with around 10 airlines now doing the same. The ICAO/IATA Contingency Coordination Team (CCT) is now activated for Middle East. All Middle East Airspace currently "Ops Normal". An FAA Information Note is published "Israel/Lebanon /Iran: Heightened tensions Following Multiple Strikes in the Middle East – Aug 2, 2024". Full updates are in the Middle East Briefing in the OPSGROUP Member Dashboard, see link.
OJZZ / Jordan
02-Aug
Jordan is now requiring all operators to carry an additional 45 minutes of contingency fuel, when planning a destination in the Jordan FIR. This includes OJAM/Amman (Queen Alia), OJAI/Amman (Marka), and OJAQ/Aqaba. This is on top of regulatory fuel reserves. OJAC/Amman FIR Notam A0268/24 refers. The background is the anticipated closure of Jordanian airspace in the context of an Iranian offensive on Israel - see the full Member briefing in the Dashboard via the link.
XMID /
01-Aug
Israel is preparing for an attack from Iran and its allies, in response to the death of several high-profile leaders. Iran has indicated that its response will be strong. The impact to civil aviation will include increased risk at airports in Israel, large-scale short notice FIR closures, increased GPS Spoofing, and risk of drones and missiles crossing airways. This risk applies across the Middle East, but especially to operations in/over Israel, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. No definite date or time is likely to be given ahead of the offensive. However as things stand, OPSGROUP estimates that the most likely commencement time is Friday or Saturday night (August 2 or 3). A similar situation occured in April 2024, but we believe that this response will be on a larger scale, and will be more sustained. An aerial attack on Israel by Iran and its allies may last several days, or longer. A full briefing with analysis, airspace impacts, route options, permit info, SafeAirspace levels, and risk assessment is available in the OPSGROUP Members Dashboard (Special Briefings section) - see link.
OLZZ / Lebanon
31-Jul
Israel carried out an airstrike in Beirut on July 30. The target was a short distance north of OLBA/Beirut. This follows news yesterday that several major carriers had stopped flying there. There are now credible concerns the airport may soon close completely. Risks to civil aviation from military activity in Lebanese airspace have escalated in recent days. See our latest article for a full briefing.
SVZZ / Venezuela
31-Jul
The US Embassy has re-issued a warning not to travel to Venezuela. There has been violent civil unrest across Caracas since a disputed election was held on July 28. Protests have been reported outside SVMI/Caracas airport. The main road to and from the airport has also been blocked by protesters. Essentially crew layovers were dangerous before, and now even more so.
OLZZ / Lebanon
30-Jul
Risk to aircraft operating over Lebanon is increasing. Following rocket attacks at the weekend, the outbreak of a larger scale conflict between Israel and Hezbollah is looking increasingly likely. Several airlines have temporarily suspended flights to OLBA/Beirut airport. Canada has issued a new Notam advising operators to avoid Lebanese airspace at all levels. See our latest article for a full briefing.
OLZZ / Lebanon
30-Jul
Canada has issued a new Notam advising operators not to enter the OLBB/Beirut FIR at all levels due to a risk of military activity. Other states are expected to soon follow. Overflight risks are changing in Lebanon - see our latest article for a full briefing.
LOZZ / Austria
30-Jul
Austria has issued a new Notam that sudden closures of airports are possible due to action by climate protestors. It suggests operators plan for unexpected delays along with limited capacity at alternates. LOVV Notam A1700/24 refers. It is the first time we have seen a Notam like this. Environmental groups across Europe have been especially active in recent weeks to coincide with peak travel season.
OLZZ / Lebanon
30-Jul
The US Embassy has issued an alert to citizens that scheduled flights to/from Beirut may change or be cancelled at short notice. They’re also recommending anyone there develop a ‘crisis plan’ to leave if the current situation escalates. There are widespread concerns a larger conflict between Hezbollah and Israel may be imminent.
XMID /
29-Jul
There was significant cross border fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon over the weekend. A large number of rockets were fired into Northern Israel followed by airstrikes on various targets well inside Lebanese territory. There are wider fears the situation may soon escalate into a full-scale conflict. Overflights should avoid the border region at all levels - sporadic rocket fire and air defence activity may be putting civil aircraft at increased risk.
EHAM / Amsterdam Netherlands
26-Jul
Extinction Rebellion will be protesting at the airport some time during the day on July 27. The only info the local handlers have is that they are expected to be protesting outside the main airline terminal, will not come inside, and will not be at the bizav terminal. Other groups have said they will also be protesting at airports in Europe on July 27 - the most likely targets are LOWW/Vienna, LSZH/Zurich and EGKK/Gatwick, but organizers have not yet confirmed any specific location.
SLLP / La Paz Bolivia
25-Jul
There might be political protests taking place near the airport on July 26. Official advice is to allow extra time for the commute, and check ahead for any roadblocks.