Poland Imposes New Airspace Restrictions Along Ukrainian and Belarusian Borders

Poland Enacts New Airspace Restrictions in Eastern Regions

According to Главком: Poland is implementing new restrictions on airspace usage in its eastern territories along the borders with Ukraine and Belarus. Effective from March 10 until June 9, 2026, these measures are designed to bolster national security. The decision to establish the EP R130 restricted zone comes amid heightened regional threats, particularly those linked to the security situation in the area. This move reflects the ongoing regional instability following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Key Details of the New Regulations

The restrictions are in effect 24/7, replacing the previous rules under zone EP R129. A complete ban on night flights is established, while daytime flights are permitted only for:

• Military aircraft;
• Search and rescue services (SAR, MEDEVAC);
• Law enforcement agencies;
• Civilian aircraft, provided they meet specific requirements.

Civilian vessels must file a flight plan, have a functioning transponder, and maintain constant communication with air traffic controllers.

Strict rules are also imposed for civilian drones during daylight hours, requiring operators to respect borders and avoid entering the Air Defense Identification Zones (ADIZ) of Ukraine and Belarus. Unauthorized entry into the EP R130 zone will be considered a violation of aviation law. Civilian entities planning to use this airspace must have a ground coordinator who can ensure all aircraft can land within 25 minutes if requested by the military.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced an extension of the elevated terrorist threat level until May 31, 2026. Additionally, the country's BRAVO (general security) and CHARLIE-CRP (cyberspace protection) alert regimes remain in force. The restrictions apply from ground level up to an altitude of approximately 3 km (Flight Level 95), underscoring the seriousness of the security measures. These steps are part of broader NATO efforts to secure its eastern flank.

These restrictions form part of Poland's wider initiative to strengthen security along its eastern frontiers, particularly in the context of escalating tensions between Russia and NATO member states. The new rules are likely to significantly impact aviation activity in the region, serving as a crucial factor in ensuring stability and security for neighboring countries like Ukraine and Belarus. Given the current geopolitical climate, such actions are viewed as precautionary measures that highlight the severity of the threats facing the region.