Poland restricts flights near its borders with Ukraine and Belarus
This was reported by the Polish Air Navigation Services Agency (PAŻP).
The Polish Air Navigation Services Agency has announced the introduction of temporary air traffic restrictions in the eastern part of the country.
The new rules will be in effect from 10 March to 9 June 2026.
The restrictions will apply to the airspace along Poland's borders with Ukraine and Belarus.
This refers to the area from ground level to an altitude of 3,000 metres. However, standard flights are usually operated at much higher altitudes, so they are not subject to the new rules.
The strictest restrictions will apply at night, from sunset to sunrise.
During this period, only military aircraft and aircraft taking off or landing at Depultychi Kruglevski Airport (EPCD) will be allowed to fly in the zone, subject to prior approval by the Air Operations Centre.
During the day, flights will be possible subject to a number of requirements.
Pilots must submit a flight plan, have their transponders turned on, and maintain constant communication with air traffic control.
Certain exceptions are provided for military aircraft and civilian drones, provided they do not violate the air defence identification zones of neighbouring countries — Belarus and Ukraine.
Exceptions are also possible for medical aviation.
In the event of a threat to human or animal life or health, natural disasters, environmental accidents or other emergencies, flights may be permitted after approval by the Air Operations Centre's Operations Duty Service.
The same permits may be granted for flights related to the protection and control of critical infrastructure.
PAŻP explained that the decision to restrict flights is related to the need to strengthen national security.
Poland's eastern border is currently considered one of the most sensitive areas in Europe due to the tense geopolitical situation and an increase in the number of incidents in the airspace.
