Poland to restrict flights near the border with Ukraine for three months: what is known

Temporary air traffic restrictions are being introduced in eastern Poland near the borders with Belarus and Ukraine. The new rules will be in effect for three months and prohibit flights in the border area. Find out when the restrictions will take effect and which flights will be subject to the new rules

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The territory of eastern Poland along the borders with Belarus and Ukraine will soon become a special aviation surveillance zone. The Polish Air Navigation Services Agency (PAŻP) has announced the introduction of temporary air traffic restrictions in this region from March 10 to June 9, 2026.

The decision was made for national security reasons against the backdrop of the complex geopolitical situation on Poland's eastern flank.

What territory will the restrictions cover?

The restricted zone will include airspace from ground level to an altitude of approximately 3,000 meters. This means that most commercial passenger aircraft, which usually fly at much higher altitudes, will not experience significant changes in their routes.

The main purpose of the innovation is to strengthen control over the airspace in border regions, where increased activity and incidents have been recorded recently.

Night flight ban

According to the PAŻP announcement, the flight ban will be in effect every day from sunset to sunrise, i.e., throughout the night.

During this period, flights in the specified zone will only be allowed for:

military aircraft,

aircraft taking off or landing at Depultycze Królewskie Airport (EPCD) — subject to prior approval by the Air Operations Center.

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Flight conditions during daylight hours

During daylight hours, the restrictions will be less severe. Piloted aircraft will be able to fly provided that they:

have submitted a flight plan,

are equipped with a working transponder,

maintain constant communication with air traffic control services.

Exceptions for drones and special services

Separate exceptions are provided for:

military aircraft,

civilian drones, if they do not violate the air defense identification zones of neighboring countries — Belarus and Ukraine.

In exceptional situations, medical aviation flights may also be permitted. After obtaining special permission from the Air Operations Center, flights are possible for:

conducting rescue operations,

responding to threats to the life or health of people and animals,

eliminating the consequences of natural disasters,

responding to environmental threats or emergencies.

In addition, the restrictions will not apply to flights related to the protection and control of critical infrastructure.

Why is Poland tightening controls?

According to the Polish Air Navigation Services Agency (PAŻP), the decision to introduce temporary restrictions is related to the need to strengthen control over the airspace at the country's eastern border.

This region is currently considered one of the most sensitive areas in Europe. Due to growing international tensions and an increase in the number of incidents in the airspace, Polish services are seeking to improve security and operational response.

The temporary restrictions will remain in force until June 9, 2026, after which the Polish authorities will assess the security situation and decide whether to continue or change the airspace control regime.

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Reminder! New customs requirements in Hungary will affect all Ukrainian carriers working with the EU. From 18 February 2026, the submission of a General Declaration of Arrival (ENS) via the ICS2 system will become mandatory. Find out how to avoid delays and fines at the border.

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