Fox – Just a fox

DNZZ/Nigeria

The presidential inauguration happens on May 29 in Abuja. It sounds like DNAA/Abuja airport might run out of parking space, and flights will have to go elsewhere over this period - DNMM/Lagos or DNKN/Kano are the best bets. There should be enough fuel at DNAA, but cards are not accepted here, so you should book in advance.

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Fox Command

LHBP/Budapest

The airport is hosting the Europa Football Final on May 31. Several restrictions have been implemented from May 30 to June 1 to manage the large volume of expected traffic. Parking is limited and the airport advises that ‘drop & go’ operations are preferred. They are requesting that operators do not refuel, rather tanker enough for the reposition flight. Slots are mandatory and application can be made via budcoord@budcoord.hu Have a look at the attached doc for more info. Contact the handler via email gat@celebiaviation.hu for ground handling assistance.

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Fox Command

PGUM/Agana

The ATC tower and runways are NOTAMed closed after Typhoon Mawar. However, limited Humanitarian and Essential Cargo flights can be received with prior approval. The typhoon directly hit Guam, and much of the island's infrastructure has been damaged. At this stage, the airport hopes to resume operations May 30. Approvals to operate in the interim can be made via email; juan.reyes@guamairport.net, raymondq@guamairport.net, precyd@guamairport.net

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Fox Command

KBOS/Boston

The congestion issues are getting worse at KBOS. Due to traffic constraints, ground stops for all GA/BA flights are possible from 18z. The NOTAM for PPR has been extended until May 30. Look at KBED/Hanscom, KBVY/Beverly or KOWD/Norwood, which are nearby but have much better availability of ramp space. If you must operate at KBOS, contact +1 617 556 2500 for approval, and maybe try boston@signatureflight.com if you need help.

Fox Command

RCZZ/Taiwan

Typhoon Mawar will impact coastal areas on May 30-31, but a late northerly swing should avoid landfall. Torrential rain is still expected in northeastern regions and could still cause disruptions at airports including RCTP/Taipei and RCSS/Songshan.

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Fox Command

XNAT/North Atlantic

The Tango Routes off the coast of France in the EGGX/Shanwick FIR will not be available for periods on May 31 and June 1. The French Navy are doing a live firing exercise (“Oceanis 23”) which will close the airspace SFC-FL500 on May 31 from 12-16z and June 1 from 06-10z. Backup dates are June 6 and 7 if the weather doesn’t cooperate. Check the doc for deets.

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Fox Command

LPZZ/Portugal

There are border control staff strikes planned over the next month at the major airports in Portugal. LPPT/Lisbon will be impacted 05-10 local time every Sat-Mon until the end of June. Strikes at other airports are planned for all day every Friday until the end of June.

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Fox Command

LUZZ/Moldova

From 21z on May 31 until 04z on June 2, you can only fly to Moldova if you’re headed to the European Political Community Summit happening in Chisinau on June 1. So say Notams LUUU A0087/23 and LUKK A0084/23. The airspace and airport are closed to everyone else.

Fox Command

SBZZ/Brazil

The launch of CPDLC services in the SBBS/Brasilia FIR has been brought forward to June. It will initially only be available at certain times of the day - AIC 08/23 has those details. The SBCW/Curibita FIR will receive it sometime late next year.

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Fox Command

KATL/Atlanta

A major flight attendant union has planned a rally for May 25. This is expected to be peaceful, but it may restrict access to airport entrances. Allow a little extra time for sign-on.

Fox Command

KZZZ/USA

There have been changes to the rules for non-US citizens who have been to Cuba in recent years. Any travel prior to 12 Jan 2021 now no longer prevents passengers from applying for the ESTA visa waiver program. For travel after that date, they are still ineligible and will need to apply for a non-immigrant visa instead due to enter the US.

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Fox Command

KBOS/Boston

There are capacity issues at Boston due to a heavy traffic. From Notam A4976/23 it looks like GA/BA flights need PPR during the afternoons on May 24-27. Contact +1 617 556 2500 for approval, and maybe try boston@signatureflight.com if you need some help.

Fox Command

OJZZ/Jordan

There’s a royal wedding happening in Amman in Jordan on June 1. Expect restrictions from May 30 to June 4. The biggest restrictions are at the city’s main OJAI/Queen Alia Airport: lots of extra VIP flights are expected, one runway and a bunch of taxiways will be closed, and they’re advising operators to tanker fuel. Most tactical diversions will not be accepted at Amman’s other airport, OJAM/Marka, nor at OJAQ/Aqaba in the south of the country. Check the Notams for details.

Fox Command

GOZZ/Senegal

There are a bunch of airports closed in Senegal without any Notams to say so. GOSM/Matam is closed until June 17, GOSS/Saint Louis until June 21, GOGK/Kolda until June 30, and GOGG/Ziguinchor until Oct 21. All the closures are due to works on the runways and taxiways, and the only place to find details on them are in the AIP SUPs via the ASECNA site.

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Fox Command

KZZZ/USA

Thanks to the NBAA, we now have a whole bunch of US Airport General Aviation Fact Sheets! These are 1-page docs written by CBP about select airports in the US, and they tell pilots pretty much all the important stuff they’d need to know about customs procedures at each one. Check our article for full details and to download them.

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Fox Command

RJTT/Tokyo Haneda

IFALPA has issued a new safety bulletin for the airport. During the upcoming warmer months, prevailing wind is often southerly. This introduces more challenging approaches due to noise abatement - including LOC and VOR procedures which need special care. The bulletin is a handy briefing on what to expect, and how to protect your aircraft.

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Fox Command

FAZZ/South Africa

Health authorities are warning of cholera outbreaks in several provinces. The source of the episodes remains unclear, but people are urged to refrain from drinking tap water - if you must, be sure to boil it. Crew should consider seeing a doctor before a trip there as a vaccine is available. Be mindful of potable water uplifts when operating out of South African airports, as these trucks are usually filled with mains water.

Fox Command

LLZZ/Israel

Notams have been published with new routes for aircraft transiting the LLLL/Tel Aviv FIR to and from various European and Middle Eastern airports. A head’s up - they are only available at certain times of the day. Click here for a summary.

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Fox Command

LPPR/Porto

Porto airport expects to be busy this summer. They’re saying that parking will only be granted for 4 days max (96 hours), and can be requested only within 15 days of your planned trip. They do have a hangar which could accommodate longer parking, but the airport does not have a towbar for GA/BA aircraft so you’ll have to bring your own. Contact local handler opo@omnihandling.com for more info.

Fox Command

EDDK/Cologne

The local handler has confirmed that fuel via WFS is limited at the moment. All other supplier are able to provide the standard. There’s no news yet on how long this issue will last, but you can contact them for more info at ops@bac-cologne.com.

Fox Command

LPPT/Lisbon

Until the end of the summer season (Oct 29), most aircraft will be limited to max 60mins turnaround time (Code A and B aircraft only get 45mins). There’s no Notam on this - it’s hidden away in AIP SUP 61/22. Local handlers expect limited summer slots too. Contact them at lis@omnihandling.com. For drop-and-go’s and parking elsewhere, they suggest LPCS/Cascais or LPFR/Faro.

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Fox Command

OIZZ/Iran

It’s the anniversary of Khomeini's death on June 4. Both Tehran airports OIII and OIIE will be closed from 0430-0930z that day (0800-1300 local time). Looks like none of the other airports in Iran are going to be impacted with closures.

Fox Command

EDDH/Hamburg

The airport will be down to a single runway from May 8-12. RWY 15/33 will be closed for works from 06z May 8 to 11z May 12. That just leaves RWY 05/23 open, but the local handler has said they don’t expect any delays or disruption. Contact them at ops@has.aero for more info.

Fox Command

EGLL/London Heathrow

There’s a security staff strike planned at Heathrow’s Terminal 5 from May 25-27. Looks like it’s not going to impact any of the other terminals, and Heathrow officials have said they don’t expect the strike to cause too much disruption.

Fox Command

XASI/Asia

Typhoon Mawar is strengthening over the Philippine Sea and looks set to become a big one. It’s still early days for tracking, but forecasts suggest it may put Taiwan or Japan at risk later this week equivalent to a Category 4 hurricane.

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Fox Command

LIZZ/Italy

The airport worker strike planned for May 18 has been postponed until June 4. If it still goes ahead, ground handling services will be the most affected. Expect processing delays and spill-over flight disruptions at major airports on this date.

Fox Command

LIME/Bergamo

The only ILS at the airport is unserviceable. There are some Notams saying that ILS and associated DME on RWY28 should not be used right now. There’s a new ILS procedure due to come in from June 14. Until then, it’s RNP and VOR approaches only.

Fox Command

HUZZ/Uganda

Opsfox report on increased traffic in the HUEC/Entebbe FIR: “There is increased traffic volume through Ugandan airspace due to the airspace closure in Sudan. Many flights are calling ATC without flight plans and this has increased controller work load. Pilots should expect excessive interrogations by ATC, and maintain a listening watch.”

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Fox Command

ELLX/Luxemburg

The airport’s only runway is closed at night between 22-04z (00-06 local time) Mon-Fri until July 15, for maintenance work. You can get in with special permission, but otherwise don’t use ELLX as an alternate during this time. Notams A1833 and A2134 refer.

Fox Command

MKZZ/Jamaica

The US has re-issued its travel advisory fro Jamaica, which includes several districts which have a “Do Not Travel” warning in place. Crew on layovers should pay attention to security and safety including at resorts and hotels. A state of emergency has been in force since 2022, and it appears like the situation is not improving.

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Fox Command

MTZZ/Haiti

The US has re-issued a “Do Not Travel” warning for Haiti due to an ever increasing security risk. If you are travelling from MTPP/Port au Prince pay special attention to local news as roadblocks happen often and with little notice, and keep an eye on the US Department of State website for further information.

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Fox Command

LLZZ/Israel

There are a bunch of airway updates in the LLLL/Tel Aviv FIR, effective May 18. No major impact to report for LLBG/Tel Aviv airport, but you can read a summary of the changes in the attached ICAO document. Keep an eye out for updated charts.

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Fox Command

KZZZ/USA

The Memorial Day holiday will kick off the peak summer season, from May 25-30. It’s tipped to be the busiest in over a decade - expect flight disruptions and sweeping traffic management, especially at major airports. Monitor the FAA NASS website for live ops updates.

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Fox Command

SVZZ/Venezuela

Air borders have reopened with Trinidad & Tobago. They were previously closed over immigration and smuggling concerns. Passengers can now pass freely between the two, along with resumption of direct flights.

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Fox Command

LPPR/Porto

Lots of ramp space and great staff. However they say there is a tow bar but they do not have one for a Gulfstream. We arrived in a G500 and we had to use our own tow bar.

Mole

LIPE/Bologna

There are some night closures coming up for runway and taxiway maintenance work. The first batch will be 5 consecutive nights Mon-Fri starting on May 22, 22-04z each night (00-06 local time). Notam A3035/23 refers. Then more night closures are planned Aug 30-Sep1, Sep 6-8 and 13-15, but there’s no Notams for these yet.

Fox Command

HUEC/Entebbe ACC

There is increased traffic volume through Ugandan airspace due to the airspace closure in Sudan. Many flights are calling ATC without flight plans and this has increased controller work load. Pilots should expect excessive interrogations by ATC, and maintain a listening watch.

EBB1

XMID/

From May 25, direct flights between Bahrain and Qatar will officially be allowed for the first time since a political embargo ended back in 2021. There should no longer be any restrictions from this date.

Fox Command

XNAT/North Atlantic

The schedule for the Formidable Shield exercise in the North Atlantic has been updated. It’s still running only until May 27, and still only affects a chunk of airspace off the west coast of Scotland, but now lots of new closure timings have been added. For planning NAT flights, watch out for the whole area from ORTAV in the north to APSOV in the south.

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Fox Command

XINO/

Australia are saying that CPDLC is unreliable across a vast part of the southern Indian Ocean, and pilots should establish contact on HF when entering the YMMM/Melbourne FIR (Notam F1593/23 refers). CPDLC will definitely be out of service from 13-17z on May 17 as they are upgrading their system, so operators should file flight plans by 12z that day to minimise risk of delays (Notam L0955/23 refers).

Fox Command

HDAM/Djibouti

An update on the Ethiopia/Eritrea/Djibouti waypoint conundrum. In the past, certain border waypoints have been closed or not permitted due to political disputes. It seems that right now, all waypoints are open and useable except for MANDA if you’re heading to/from HDAM/Djibouti airport. At least, that’s what the permit agents are saying. If you know different, let us know!

Fox Command

LFZZ/France

The French Open is on in Paris, May 28-June 11. LFPB/Le Bourget is the preferred airport for GA operators. Be sure to check with the FBO for availability of parking and other services. Strikes have been occurring recently and it is expected that these will continue so be on the lookout for this.

Fox Command

LLZZ/Israel

Rocket attacks have continued in the past few days near Gaza - especially Jerusalem and Ashkelon. This follows hundreds fired on May 10, some reportedly targeting Tel Aviv. There are no new disruptions to report at LLBG/Tel Aviv, but aircraft in Israeli airspace need to be prepared for short notice airport closures or re-routes at all times if air defense activity takes place. See safeairspace.net for more info.

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Fox Command

EPZZ/Poland

There was a high-profile balloon incursion in the EPWW/Warsaw FIR on May 12. It was spotted in Eastern Poland near the Belarusian border - level unknown. Spill-over risks from the conflict in Ukraine continue to be present in this area. While there are no active airspace warnings for Polish airspace, we continue to recommend operators avoid the eastern portions.

Fox Command

UDZZ/Armenia

The Armenia-Azerbaijan border conflict has flared up again in the past few days. Clashes back in Sep 2022 temporarily closed all border waypoints between the two countries - no sign of that happening again yet, but if you want to be extra cautious on east-west overflights consider routing via Georgian airspace (the UGGG/Tbilisi FIR) to the north instead, avoiding the Armenia/Azerbaijan border region.

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Fox Command

EGJJ/Jersey

Last minute charter flights to Jersey will get more tricky from May 13. There’s a new rule that 24hrs notice will be required for all departing charter flights on aircraft over 15 tonnes MTOW. And for all flights, 24hrs notice will be required for any requests to extend the airport opening times. Contact handling.jer@gamaaviation.com for more info.

Fox Command

LFZZ/France

Two major events are about to happen in Southern France - the Cannes Film Festival (May 16 - 27) and the F1 Monaco Grand Prix (May 25 - 28). Both LFMN/Nice and LFMD/Cannes and will have special procedures in place including parking restrictions and slot allocations to manage the influx of traffic. That info can be found in AIP SUPs 27/23 and 30/23 respectively. Early handling reservations are essential.

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Fox Command

KMHK/Manhattan

The airport is undergoing runway construction works. The long runway RWY 03/21 is already closed until Sep 1. The short runway RWY 13/31 (5000ft) will close from May 12 to July 19 - expect the Notam for this to be issued for this soon. Contact local handler linetech@kansasjetcenter.com for more info.

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Fox Command

LLZZ/Israel

There was a major rocket attack on May 10, likely related to military activity in Gaza. Close to three hundred were fired toward the LLLL/Tel Aviv FIR - most were destroyed by air defense systems. The Israeli CAA has issued a new security advisory. Essentially, they suggest operators at all levels monitor any available threat information (LLLL Notam A0513/23 refers). You can find a full briefing on Safeairspace.net.

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Fox Command

OPZZ/Pakistan

Be careful with security on layovers - there have been violent protests in Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi and other major cities in the past 24 hours over the high-profile arrest of a prominent politician. This is expected to continue. The US Embassy has issued a new warning - essentially to avoid any crowds and continue to monitor their website for new security alerts.

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Fox Command

LIML/Milan

Something to watch out for at Milan, as per an Airport Spy report from a member this week: you’re not allowed to refuel with pax onboard, which means they all need to disembark and go through Customs in the FBO (as transit flights are not allowed). Read the full report at Airport Spy.

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Fox Command

ROAH/Okinawa

Rubbish collection for international flights is currently unavailable. All inbound flights will need to keep theirs onboard and dispose of it at their next port of call. Contact local agent fltops@aeroworks.jp for more info.

Fox Command

WSZZ/Singapore

Singapore has published a SUP with all the closures planned at WSSS/Changi and WSSL/Seletar over the next few months due to military activity. There are a few short ones at WSSS in June/July, plus a quick mention of some closures at both WSSS and WSSL on Aug 9 & 12 for Singapore’s National Day (although expect another SUP to be issued on this nearer the time with more details on closures and restrictions).

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Fox Command

EHBK/Maastricht

The airport is now closed to all flights until June 30 for runway renovation. Notam A0686/23 refers.

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Fox Command

XNAT/North Atlantic

Formidable Shield is happening again this year, from May 9-27, which will mean large parts of North Atlantic airspace will be closed to all flights for several hours at a time. The first closures we know about are happening May 9-12 from 09-21z each day, SFC-UNL, in a big area off the west coast of Scotland. So maybe expect some weird looking NAT Tracks those days. There might be more airspace closures after May 12, but these will only be announced by Notam 24hrs prior.

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Fox Command

FGZZ/Equatorial Guinea

US travelers now need a visa to enter - a waiver in place for decades has now ended. It doesn’t look like they’re available on arrival either. The US Embassy advises applying at least sixty days in advance at a consulate. Local agents advise this applies to crew too.

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Fox Command

OAKB/Kabul

There was a rocket attack at the airport on May 5, during a high-profile political visit. Several reportedly landed in public areas and caused injuries. It’s not clear yet who was responsible. The OAKX/Kabul FIR is an active conflict zone, and is dangerous for civil aviation. US operators remain banned apart from select airways near the border with Pakistan. Safeairspace.net has more info.

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Fox Command

HSZZ/Sudan

IATA published a new brief on May 5 on the situation in Sudan. The HSSS/Khartoum FIR remains closed - only humanitarian flights are allowed, and they need prior approval (HSSS Notams A0070 and 81 refer). There are still no air navigation services in adjacent South Sudan above FL245. You can find useful flight planning contingencies for both north/south and east/westbound routes attached, which avoid the affected airspace.

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Fox Command

LDZD/Zadar

It is now mandatory for all GA/BA flights to use the VIP terminal at the airport - they can’t use the main terminal anymore. It seems this rule isn’t written anywhere (last year there was a Notam, this year nothing) but contact the airport direct for more info: groundops@zadar-airport.hr. The charge is 65 EUR per passenger per way, and 50 EUR for crew.

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Fox Command

FAZZ/South Africa

Load shedding is once again impacting South Africa. Whilst most airports are not reporting any major outages, crew should be very careful of their personal security whilst on layovers. Phone and internet may not be available during outages and that there is an increased risk of blackouts and civil disruption.

Fox Command

DNMM/Lagos

Airport worker unions caused disruptions at the airport on May 3, reportedly ‘taking over’ various airline counters. This led to extensive flight delays. They previously closed roads to the airport. Unions have threatened to continue these types of disruptions throughout May if an agreement over pay and conditions isn’t reached - DNAA/Abuja may also be affected.

Fox Command

KZZZ/USA

The US FAA has confirmed that the deadline to retrofit 5G tolerant radio altimeters won’t be pushed back. July 1 is the deadline to be able to use low viz CAT II and III approaches at affected airports for commuter and transport category aircraft. Then from Feb 1 next year, Part 121 operators won’t be allowed to enter US airspace at all if unequipped - a looming supply shortage is predicted.

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Fox Command

ELLX/Luxemburg

The airport’s only runway is closed at night between 22-04z (00-06 local time) Mon-Fri until July 15, for maintenance work. You can get in with special permission, but otherwise don’t use ELLX as an alternate during this time. Notams A1833 and A2134 refer.

BRU7

UDZZ/Armenia

It looks like Turkey has closed its airspace to flights between Armenia and third countries, following a political dispute. Flyone Armenia have said that Turkish authorities have canceled their permits to operate flights to Europe through Turkish airspace. That follows a Flyone Paris-Yerevan flight last weekend which had to make an emergency landing in Chisinau after being denied entry to Turkish airspace. There are no Notams on this, but the Turkish foreign minister has been reported saying the ban applies to private jets too.

Fox Command

XPAC/

The FAA are re-designing the NOPAC routes which transit the Anchorage ARTCC. Over the next year or so, several will be removed. New equipment requirements are being introduced for the rest - one route now requires PBCS and RNP4 approvals between FL340-400, and this will apply to more routes from Dec 2023. For more info, see the FAA’s recent briefing.

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Fox Command

LLZZ/Israel

At least thirty rockets were fired into Southern Israel from Gaza on May 2. Some were destroyed by air defense systems which can put civil aircraft at additional risk. This follows another major attack from Lebanese territory earlier in April. Ops at LLBG/Tel Aviv were not affected, but aircraft should be prepared for short notice closures and re-routes at all times in the LLLL/Tel Aviv FIR. Safeairspace.net has more info.

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Fox Command

LCZZ/Cyprus

The LCCC/Nicosia FIR continues to be plagued with closed airspace/airways due to military activity. For overflights here, stick to the higher flight levels, expect re-routes, and read our article on risk considerations in Cypriot airspace.

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Fox Command

BIZZ/Iceland

There’s been a change in AFTN addressing for filing of flight plans in the BIRD/Reykjavik FIR. IFR FPLs now need to be sent to BIRDZPZZ. VFR and mixed FPLs should be sent to BIRDZPZX. AIC 8-23 refers.

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Fox Command

KZZZ/USA

The vaccination mandate for all foreign arrivals into the US will be scrapped from May 11. This will essentially end all covid-related entry restrictions - pre-travel testing is also no longer required having been canceled last year.

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Fox Command

CZZZ/Canada

A new AIC has been published for the looming ADS-B mandate in Class A airspace from Aug 10, 2023. It details new flight plan filing requirements. Essentially, there will be extra entries required in both Fields 10 and 18. There will also be allowances made for non-equipped aircraft if traffic permits, and with at least three days’ notice.

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Fox Command

OSAP/Aleppo

The airport was damaged again by an airstrike on May 1. It is now closed until at least May 5 (OSAP Notam A0074/23 refers). Syrian airspace (the OSTT/Damascus FIR) remains an active conflict zone with several risks to civil aviation. US operators remain banned - see safeairspace.net for more info.

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Fox Command

LFZZ/France

The French ATC strike continues. It’s been extended to June 1 but will most likely keep getting extended if the nationwide pension reform dispute doesn’t get resolved. These French ATC strikes impact both overflights and flights to France. There’s a Notam (LFFF F0714/23) saying to expect delays to be particularly bad in the LFFF/Paris ACC on Weds and Sats, including the night shifts before and after.

Fox Command

HSZZ/Sudan

Sudan is closed to all flights except humanitarian and evac flights with prior permission (HSSS A0070/23). In South Sudan, air navigation services remain suspended above FL245 (HSSS A0069/23). Fighting has continued in Khartoum despite a ceasefire. Several countries have issued airspace warnings for the HSSS/Khartoum FIR, due to risks from anti-aircraft weaponry and military activity. See safeairspace.net for more info.

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Fox Command

ZSZZ/China

From April 29, PCR testing of all pax arrivals was scrapped. Instead, pax will just need to do a rapid antigen test within 48 hours of their flight. Carriers will also no longer have an obligation to check them before boarding. Members on recent trips to ZBAA/Beijing and ZSSS/Shanghai have reported that the Covid test is no longer required for crew - you just need a C type visa and to fill out the online health dec form to generate a QR code which you show on arrival. We advise contacting your local agent to check any variations to those requirements depending on which airport in China you’re flying to.

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Fox Command

RJZZ/Japan

Japan will drop all remaining Covid entry rules from Apr 29 - a week earlier than expected. Passengers arriving will no longer need to submit proof of vaccination or negative test results.

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Fox Command

HSZZ/Sudan

EASA has published a new Conflict Zone Information Bulletin for the HSSS/Khartoum FIR. Due to ongoing fighting, civil aircraft are at increased risk from anti-aircraft fire including artillery and surface-to-air missiles at all levels. They recommend operators avoid the airspace completely. It’s not binding, but member states are likely follow this advice with their own official warnings, and possible flight bans. Keep an eye on safeairspace.net for updates.

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Fox Command

EZZZ/Europe

EU states have agreed on a bunch of environmental policies that will soon become law. The most pressing will be restrictions on tankering fuel for departing flights - the idea being to reduce excess weight and therefore emissions. Apparently when signed off, rules will become effective immediately. We’ll keep you updated as the specifics become available.

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Fox Command

EIDW/Dublin

A member reports birds nesting in the back of engines and APU exhaust during a brief day stop. Engineers were called in twice. Spring is likely the worst time of year for this hazard - keep an eye out on walkarounds, and use covers if possible.

Fox Command

EGLL/London Heathrow

Security staff are planning to strike on several days throughout May: 4-6, 9-10, 25-27. Previous strikes here have been quite disruptive with delays in processing pax, clearing luggage and flight delays across the board.

Fox Command

SOZZ/French Guiana

The SOOO/Cayenne FIR in South Atlantic became Free Route Airspace FL245 and above from April 20. The only big changes are that a couple of airways have disappeared (the north-south UL375 and UL695) and there are some new waypoints over on the GOOO/Dakar FIR boundary (UGOBO, ROMAS, GENAM).

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Fox Command

EGZZ/United Kingdom

Expect delays at airports across the UK on Apr 28 due to a strike by border force staff.

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Fox Command

SPZZ/Peru

SPJL/Juliaca reopened on April 25, having closed back in January due to widespread civil unrest. The security situation in Peru is still unstable though, and there are no major improvements to report. Protests remain a problem - take special care to monitor travel advisories before layovers. The US Dept of State is a good place to start, and includes advice for Lima (attached).

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Fox Command

OEZZ/Saudi Arabia

The annual Hajj pilgrimage will take place this year from June 26 - July 1. This will mean an influx of traffic at OEJN/Jeddah and OEMA/Medina. Parking will be limited and you can expect additional restrictions in the weeks prior. Reserve handling as early as possible. Delays may also affect ops at OERK/Riyadh and OEDF/Dammam.

Fox Command

MRLB/Liberia

There’s a ramp expansion project due to start at the end of May. Once this gets underway, overnight parking for GA aircraft will be prohibited until the project is completed. Only quick turns will be allowed, and you’ll have to reposition to one of the other 3 international airports in Costa Rica (MROC, MRPV, MRLM) for parking. Contact customersvc@cstflightservices.com for more info.

Fox Command

LFPB/Paris Le Bourget

The Paris Air Show will take place at LFPB/Paris Le Bourget from June 19-25. Restrictions apply from June 12 onwards - you need to get an accreditation number at least 7 days in advance and include it on your FPL, and there are daily closures to watch out for too. SUP 59/23 has all the info.

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Fox Command

DNZZ/Nigeria

A major airport worker union is threatening an indefinite strike from late April if its conditions aren’t met. Strikes earlier this month at DNMM/Lagos and DNAA/Abuja caused disruption including protests and blocking of road access to the airports. No specific dates have been set yet, but we’ll keep you updated.

Fox Command

EZZZ/Europe

EASA has updated its third country operators (TCO) requirements, which apply to all non-European registered aircraft operating commercial flights in and out of the EU - including non-scheduled charters. The changes are minor - mostly clarifications of existing rules. There is extra guidance for one-off approvals, and exemptions for special circumstances. You can read a summary of those changes via the attached link.

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Fox Command

KAPF/Naples

The airport’s main runway RWY 5/23 will be closed between 22-06 local time (02-10z) Sunday through Thursday nights until October, due to a drainage system project. Parts of Taxiway A will be closed too. During the closures, 5,000-foot RWY 14/32 will remain open.

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Fox Command

KZZZ/USA

There have been some issues with foreign flights not filing via the new Northeast Corridor Atlantic Coast Routes. These became effective on April 20 - part of a big airspace improvement project. This is causing problems with re-routes on reaching the Boston ARTCC boundary. See a list of the new routes available here.

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Fox Command

WSZZ/Singapore

Effective Apr 20, there are some direct routings now available in the WSJC/Singapore FIR, for flights from FL290-460. They only save a handful of NM’s, but every little helps. Check SUP 23-41 for more info.

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Fox Command

XMID/

Flights between Bahrain and Qatar are set to resume - two years after the boycott of Qatar was lifted. In 2021, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Egypt restored flights to Qatar after three-and-a-half-year embargo. In March 2023, Doha Control took control of its airspace in the newly established OTDF/Doha FIR, which covers the State of Qatar and their waters, SFC-UNL.

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Fox Command

EGLL/London Heathrow

Security staff at Heathrow are planning more strikes in May. The dates are May 4-6, 9-10, and 25-27. If it goes ahead, expect delays, especially around the King’s Coronation happening on May 6.

Fox Command

LIME/Bergamo

The only ILS at the airport is unserviceable. There are some Notams saying that ILS and associated DME on RWY28 should not be used right now. There’s a new ILS procedure due to come in from June 14. Until then, it’s RNP and VOR approaches only.

BGY1

LDZA/Zagreb

The airport will be closed to all flights at night between 2300-0625 local time (2100-0425z) throughout the month of May, due to WIP. Until then, you can head in there at night but only with prior permission from koordinatori@zag.aero.

Fox Command

VYZZ/Myanmar

Myanmar’s main airport VYYY/Yangon was targeted again by resistance groups on Apr 16 - this time a missile attack on some fuel tanks on the military side of the airport. This was at least the third attack on the airport in recent weeks. The security situation in Myanmar has deteriorated since the military coup in Feb 2021, with increasing clashes between resistance groups and the military regime. Check Safeairspace before operating.

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Fox Command

MMUN/Cancun

A head’s up for aircraft headed between Cancun and Florida airports via waypoint MYDIA (including KMIA/Miami, KFLL/Fort Lauderdale and KMCO/Orlando). At busy times, MMUN Notams have recently been published with required routings through Cuban airspace. These still require an overflight permit. To contact the Cuban CAA directly for that, try ppv@iacc.avianet.cu or +537 860 1126.

Fox Command

LIZZ/Italy

There is a major military exercise happening around Sardinia in the Central Mediterranean until May 6. ‘Mare Aperto 2023’ will affect portions of the LIRR/Roma, LIBB/Brindisi, LIMM/Milano, LFMM/Marseille and DTTC/Tunis FIRs with restricted airspace impacting cruising aircraft. For a full briefing, see the attached link.

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Fox Command

EBBR/Brussels

To operate in or out at night, you’ll need a specific night slot and they’re limited - especially to depart. There have been issues lately with aircraft operating without one which can lead to heavy penalties and problems getting any in the future. Extra guidance has been issued to help you stay out of trouble on the back of the clock. You can view it via the attached link.

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Fox Command

ORZZ/Iraq

Militant groups have threatened to target military aircraft in the ORBB/Baghdad FIR with a type of man portable air defence system (MANPAD). This reinforces known risks to civil aviation there, especially at lower levels - they may be mistakenly targeted. Check Safeairspace for a full briefing.

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Fox Command

KZZZ/USA

The FAA has published a new Information Note which warns against the risks of pilots inhibiting TAWS aural alerts. The NTSB believes this has been a contributing cause to recent CFIT accidents. They recommend that all Part 135 and 91 operators have training and procedures in place specifically for the use of the inhibit function.

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Fox Command

UDZZ/Armenia

The Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict has flared up again. Both have each accused the other of beginning an exchange of fire around the contested Nagorno-Karabkah region on Apr 11. Clashes back in Sep 2022 temporarily closed all border waypoints between the two countries - no sign of that happening again yet. Check Safeairspace for more info.

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Fox Command

KZZZ/USA

The FAA’s ‘Northeast Corridor Atlantic Coast Routes Project’ is finally launching on April 20 with a number of changes. Several ‘J’ routes are being scrapped and replaced with a bunch of new or modified ‘Q’ routes. Four major STARs at KPHL/Philadelphia, KEWR/Newark and KTEB/Teterboro are also being amended. Databases have already been updated in advance. There may be additional ATC traffic management in place for the first few days while things settle down.

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Fox Command

OSZZ/Syria

There were more airstrikes on targets in Damascus on April 10. This is the third such event in the city since the start of the month. In all cases, air defence systems were activated which can cause significant risk to civil aircraft through mistaken identity, or by being caught in the crossfire. US operators remain banned from the OSTT/Damascus FIR at all levels. For a full briefing, see safeairspace.net.

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Fox Command

ORZZ/Iraq

Turkey targeted ORSU/Sulaimaniya airport (in the Kurdistan region) with a drone attack on April 7, with an explosion reported. This follows news that Turkey has closed its airspace to any flight operating to or from it over security concerns. More attacks are possible which could place civil aircraft at risk both on the ground or in the air.

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Fox Command

VYZZ/Myanmar

Myanmar’s main airport VYYY/Yangon was targeted with improvised artillery rounds on Apr 6. The attack temporarily closed the airport. There are still no details on the extent of the damage caused. The security situation in Myanmar has deteriorated since the military coup in Feb 2021, with increasing clashes between resistance groups and the military regime. Check Safeairspace before operating.

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Fox Command

KTEB/Teterboro

If you’re headed to Teterboro, plan a preferred route! NY ARTCC has reported an uptick in GA flight plans not only failing to file the preferred routes but also cutting across organized route structure. Check the FAA guidance doc for what to do to stay out of trouble.

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Fox Command

XASI/Asia

Monsoon season is about to kick off in South-East Asia. It typically runs from May to October. Hazards include severe storms, runway closures and flooding. Extra fuel and alternate planning is an essential part of safe ops here during this time. We’ll keep you updated on any new risks as we see them.

Fox Command

LLZZ/Israel

At least thirty rockets were fired into Northern Israel from Lebanon on April 6. A large number were destroyed by air defenses - it’s not clear yet who was responsible. It was the largest attack from Lebanese territory in decades. A northern portion of the LLLL/Tel Aviv FIR was reportedly closed. No reports of disruptions at LLBG/Tel Aviv airport - although all aircraft should be ready for short notice closures and reroutes. Safeairspace.net has more info.

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Fox Command

VABB/Mumbai

The airport will be completely closed from 0530-1130z (11-17 local time) on May 2 for pre-monsoon season runway maintenance. VABB Notam A0219/23 refers.

Fox Command

EDFH/Hahn

The smaller Frankfurt international airport is closed overnight on Apr 6 and Apr 13 due to runway works. The closure timings are 2015-0525z both nights.

Fox Command

HCZZ/Somalia

Two security concerns to report from the past couple of days. On April 3, an explosion and gunfire were reported next to the airport. Then on April 5, there was a mortar attack on a government building less than a mile away. Despite Class A airspace now permanently active in the HCSM/Mogadishu FIR, put serious thought into safety risks if you need to divert.

Fox Command

KZZZ/USA

Be careful if using or hearing the term ‘instantaneous wind.’ The NTSB are worried that it is not defined in any FAA publication, and pilots may not be aware of the potential risk of using it. It’s been blamed for a runway overrun accident last year at KASE/Aspen when the ATIS was reporting wind that was beyond an aircraft’s operational limits. For more info, see the attached link.

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Fox Command

KZZZ/USA

We’ve had some more info on US domestic enroute CPDLC - specifically how it works for foreign operators heading into the US internationally. L3Harris have published a doc which lists all the inbound/outbound scenarios, and how CPDLC will work in each situation. Check our updated article for more info.

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Fox Command

FHAW/Wide Awake

Work on the runway has been completed. Useable length and width has been restored to 10,019ft x 150ft, and the updated PCN is 114 F/A/W/T. Although the airport is open for emergencies, the local military authorities advise against it as they don’t have the infrastructure to cope with diverts (so consider FHSH/St Helena instead for South Atlantic ops).

Fox Command

VHHH/Hong Kong

Effective right away, HK has dropped all of its remaining Covid rules for entry. This includes pre-departure testing, health screening and any quarantine requirements. For aviation, this effectively means things are back to normal for both pax and crew.

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Fox Command

SVZZ/Venezuela

Air borders have reopened with Curaçao for the first time since 2019. They were closed over immigration and smuggling concerns. Passengers can now pass freely between the two, along with resumption of flights.

Fox Command

LTZZ/Turkey

Member report of more jamming in northern Turkey: Radar jamming in LTAA/Ankara FIR on airway UN644 between NAPIP- ROLIN. This route is just below the No Fly Zone by about 40nm. Company planes reported GPS signal loss, ADS-B failure, fake calls on guard and satcom inop. Once the aircraft crossed into the UGGG/Tbilisi FIR everything came back.

Fox Command

XNAT/North Atlantic

There have been some changes to the boundaries of the datalink exempt airspace in the northern bit of the North Atlantic. This used to extend down south to SAVRY, but now only goes as far as EMBOK. So now you need datalink in the NAT oceanic airspace over Greenland controlled by Gander. This change was published in the updated NAT Doc 007 in Jan 2023, but we only just spotted it now.

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Fox Command

KZZZ/USA

The US has brought in new rules for foreign operators doing P135 charter flights to the US under Form 375 approval. From now on, they will have to email the FAA every time they operate into the US. Looks like the FAA is going to start making sure they only do max 12 flights per year. Check the doc for more info.

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Fox Command

NFTZ/

Small but convenient news from Tonga - the requirement for entering pax and crew to be fully vaccinated has been dropped. There are now no additional Covid requirements for this tech stop option and alternate in the South Pacific.

Fox Command

OSZZ/Syria

There was another airstrike near the city of Homs (50nm north of Damascus) on April 2. This follows a missile attack on targets in or near Damascus itself on March 30. These types of events are expected to continue creating major risk to civilian traffic at all levels in the OSTT/Damascus FIR. Several major states completely ban operators from this active conflict zone. See safeairpace.net for more.

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Fox Command

KMIA/Miami

Looking for permission to land at KMIA/Miami? You won’t get it via phone anymore. You need to email, and so you might want to make sure you do it in good time. Their email contact is this KMIA-ARRIVALS@cbp.dhs.gov. Also note that aircraft with a wingspan greater than 24m are prohibited from entering the General Aviation Center ramp, which is where customs are. So if that’s you, expect to be parked elsewhere and have to shuttle over.

Fox Command

RKZZ/South Korea

From April 1, passengers from twenty-two visa free countries (including the US, UK, Japan and Taiwan) will become exempt from the Electronic Authorisation System. This basically means they won’t need to apply for anything before traveling. Pax from the remaining non-exempt countries will still need to register online at least 72 hours before they board their flight.

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Fox Command

VHHH/Hong Kong

Hong Kong have said they will extend their current GA/BA slot rules for another year. Basically, there are 9 ad-hoc slots available each night (1400-2259z) for quiet aircraft, and 6 for noisy ones. There might sometimes be some cheeky daytime slots available too if you get lucky.

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Fox Command

KMDW/Chicago

Class C airspace is being expanded from June 15. Essentially two new sectors will extend to the northeast, out to 10nm from the field. For more info, see the FAA’s notice (attached).

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Fox Command

OSZZ/Syria

Several missiles were fired at targets in or near Damascus on March 30. Air defense systems over the city destroyed some of them. This follows an airstrike which closed OSAP/Aleppo just last week. Civil aircraft remain at serious risk from these types of events in the OSTT/Damascus FIR. Several states, including the US, ban operators from entering. See safeairspace.net for more info.

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Fox Command

FAZZ/South Africa

South African authorities are suspending a whole load of instrument approaches at airports nationwide, possibly due to ICAO audit concerns. See our post for more info.

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Fox Command

KMIA/Miami

If you use Customs ramp only and don’t use the Signature Ramp; be sure to walk into the Miami/Dade airport office (in customs building ) and pay your Parking fee. Otherwise they will call ground control and turn you around to pay before departure. We didn’t use the Signature Ramp but did use them for catering and paid parking at SFS but there is no communication between SFS and airport office saying you paid landing fee. If your plane departs from customs ramp and never relocates to SFS airport office turns you around . Be sure to have SFS call airport office and advise paid.

SNA5

LTZZ/Turkey

Severe GPS jamming in the North and East Turkish airspace. First experienced around waypoint KONUK, all the way to the boundary with Iran (Teheran FIR) and waypoint TUDNU. The jamming can trigger a whole lot of warnings/caution messages (UNABLE RNP, GNSS REVERTED, SBAS NOT IN USE, ADS-B and ADS-C FAULT, etc) and the aircraft going into dead reckoning mode.

LTN3

EGLF/Farnborough

Some fee changes are coming in at Farnborough airport. From Dec 1 the weekend surcharge for all non-contract / non-based aircraft will increase to £795 per movement. All aircraft, under parking contracts (hangar or external), will continue to receive the previous price (£545 per movement) until the end of this year.

FAB3

CZZZ/Canada

On Dec 29, the final phase of the Canadian airspace modernization program comes into effect meaning several navaids will be decommissioned and RNAV (GNSS) approaches and RNAV airway segments will be published instead. You can read the list and see if it impacts airports you operate to here.

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YYZ8

EDVE/Braunschweig

SAFA Check upon arrival. The check took over an hour even though we readily supplied all docs and answers all questions quickly. Felt like they were going to keep digging till they found something, they did. They called it a level two finding, it will be removed once we provide a updated doc. We were given breathalyzer tests! The crew was as pleasant as we could be, but were admittedly aggravated by the end of this check. We felt like it was a little bit over the top.

Mole

EGZZ/United Kingdom

Starting from 1st Oct 2021, European citizens, including those from Switzerland, Iceland and Norway, must present their passports when entering the UK - they can no longer enter just by showing their ID card. Until the end of 2025 there will be a few exemptions, including for Irish citizens.

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BRU7

TNCF/Curacao ACC

As business aviation operator we had a flight denied to enter TNCF/Curaco FIR because the nav fees were not paid in advance. We had to reroute in flight. To avoid that, sign up and prepay.

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BRU7