EU Urges Airlines to Avoid Israel and Lebanon until October 31

Brussels: The European Union has advised airlines to avoid flying through the airspace of Israel and Lebanon, citing escalating air strikes and a deteriorating security situation. The recommendation was issued by the European Commission and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) on Saturday.

In an official statement, the EU bodies warned of “an overall intensification of air strikes and degradation in the security situation,” particularly as tensions rise between Israel and Hezbollah. The advisory urges airlines to refrain from operating within the airspaces of both countries at any flight level.

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The recommendation is set to remain in place until October 31, though EASA noted that it may be extended or withdrawn depending on how the threat evolves. “EASA will continue to closely monitor the situation, with a view to assess whether there is an increase or decrease of risks for EU aircraft operators as a result of the evolution of the threat,” the agency said.

This precautionary measure comes amid increased rocket fire and air strikes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters, raising concerns over the safety of civilian air traffic in the region.

EASA’s Conflict Zone Information Bulletin is part of the agency’s broader efforts to safeguard aviation in volatile regions, and the EU will continue to assess the risks posed to aircraft operating near the conflict zones.

Key Points:

1. EU Advisory: The European Union has advised airlines to avoid flying through the airspace of Israel and Lebanon due to escalating air strikes and security concerns.
2. Safety Recommendation: The European Commission and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issued an official recommendation against operating within the airspaces of Israel and Lebanon at any flight level.
3. Effective Until October 31: The advisory is set to last until October 31, though it may be extended or withdrawn based on the evolving security situation.
4. Escalation of Conflict: The recommendation follows increased air strikes and rocket fire between Israeli forces and Hezbollah.
5. Ongoing Risk Assessment: EASA will continue to monitor the situation and reassess the risks to EU aircraft operators as the conflict progresses.