EU Aviation Safety Agency Warns Airlines to Avoid Saudi Airspace Amid Escalating Attacks
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has recommended that airlines avoid certain parts of Saudi Arabian airspace due to intensified missile and drone attacks by Yemeni forces. This advisory comes from data published by the Mehr News Agency, quoting Anatolia.
The European agency stated that the region’s security situation remains “highly unstable” due to ongoing military conflict and significant military activities impacting Saudi Arabian airspace. EASA reported a notable increase in the frequency and geographical scope of Yemeni forces’ attacks on maritime, energy, and infrastructure targets in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, during September. Military and aviation-related infrastructure across Saudi Arabia has also been repeatedly targeted by missile and drone strikes.
According to the report, the airspace in southern and southwestern Saudi Arabia remains vulnerable, primarily due to its proximity to Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. However, recent attacks indicate the group’s capability and willingness to strike deeper within the country. EASA specifically highlighted Riyadh, Tabuk, and Yanbu as areas affected by these threats.
The agency warned that repeated missile and drone attacks, coupled with the activation of air defense systems, increase the risk of misidentification of civilian aircraft, as well as dangers from interceptions and falling debris from projectiles. Operators have been advised to avoid flying at any altitude within specific designated areas of Saudi Arabian airspace that are particularly exposed to threats from missiles and drones.
The EASA advisory is valid until November 16 and is subject to early review.
