Poland and Latvia Tighten Airspace Restrictions Near Borders

Poland and Latvia have introduced new airspace restrictions along their eastern borders in response to heightened security concerns. Poland has restricted a narrow strip of airspace along its entire border with Ukraine and Belarus following the incursion of around 20 uncrewed aerial vehicles reportedly dispatched by Russia on September 10, 2025. The measures also coincide with the Zapad 2025 Russian-Belarusian joint strategic military exercise being conducted in Belarus from September 12 to 16.

Poland’s restrictions, imposed on September 12 and set to remain in place until at least December 9, 2025, are outlined in NOTAM D6213/25. The directive establishes a new restricted area, EPR129, banning all UAV operations around the clock. Nighttime bans extend to all other aircraft operations, although daytime flights are allowed if the aircraft operates under a valid flight plan, maintains two-way communication with air traffic control, and is equipped with a Mode-A, Mode-C, or Mode-S transponder. Flights above FL095 (9,500 feet or 2,895 meters) remain permitted at all times.

Due to the closure of Ukrainian airspace and the limited commercial traffic over the Polish-Belarusian border region, the new restrictions have minimal impact on scheduled flights. Meanwhile, Latvia has imposed a ban on all non-military flights along its borders with Belarus and Russia between September 11 and 18. According to NOTAM A4196/25, flights up to FL195 (19,500 feet or 5,945 meters) require prior military approval regardless of the equipment or procedures used, reflecting increased regional security measures.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com