Seeking to improve air security along its eastern border as the war in Ukraine continues, Poland has temporarily restricted low-altitude flights.
The Polish Armed Forces Operational Command announced that a new restricted airspace extending from ground level to approximately 3 kilometers had been established. The measure is scheduled to begin on September 10 and remain in effect until December 9.
Passenger aircraft flying at higher altitudes will be allowed
The measure will not apply to passenger aircraft flying at higher altitudes. Polish authorities said they aim to limit its impact on civil aviation and other airspace users.
The new restricted zone is expected to replace controls that were previously in force. A ban on night flights is also expected.
More room for air defense operations
The Operational Command said the temporary measure aims to give all elements of Poland's air defense system greater room to maneuver and enable a more effective response to potential threats. Polish law allows such temporary restrictions to remain in place for up to three months.
Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz announced that protection of the airspace along the eastern border would be expanded. The minister said air force operations would be increased and that F-16 aircraft and helicopters would be used for these missions.
Kosiniak-Kamysz said provocations originating from Russia had taken different forms in recent weeks and posed threats even in areas previously considered safe. The minister said Poland was continuously monitoring developments along its eastern border and noted that rapid-response systems for threats were being strengthened across the country.
