EASA Advises Caution for Airlines Operating in Israeli and Iranian Airspaces Amid Regional Tensions

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has reiterated its advice for airlines to exercise caution when flying in or near Israeli and Iranian airspaces following recent military tensions in the region. This guidance follows a series of Iranian drone and missile strikes on Israel, which prompted temporary airspace closures in several Middle Eastern countries including Israel, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, and Iran.

EASA confirmed that these airspaces were closed by the respective authorities during the attacks and emphasized that no civil overflights were at risk during the incidents. The agency, in collaboration with the European Commission, continues to monitor the situation closely to assess any potential safety risks to EU aircraft operators and is prepared to take further action if necessary.

For airlines operating over Israel and its neighboring regions, EASA’s existing guidance remains in effect, advising pilots to stay informed through all available aeronautical publications and to maintain a heightened awareness within 100 nautical miles of Israeli airspace.

Regarding operations over Tehran and broader Iranian airspace, EASA highlighted an ongoing risk of miscalculation or misidentification, urging continued vigilance.

The recent escalations occurred in response to a suspected Israeli airstrike on an Iranian consulate in Syria on April 1, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of several Iranian Revolutionary Guards commanders. In retaliation, Iran launched over 300 missiles and drones, most of which were intercepted by Israel’s missile defense systems or by allied forces before reaching Israeli airspace.

EASA noted that all temporary restrictions on the affected airspaces were lifted by Sunday following the end of the hostilities during that weekend. The agency assures that it will provide updates and recommendations to ensure the safety of international air travel amid ongoing regional conflicts.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, jpost.com