Syria: Eurocontrol warns of potential air strikes

Event

On Tuesday, April 10, the air traffic control agency Eurocontrol warned of disruptions to radio navigation equipment in the eastern Mediterranean region due to the possibility of air strikes conducted in Syria in the following 72 hours. The agency has warned airlines to exercise heightened caution in the event of air traffic control failures.

Very few commercial flights currently utilize Syrian airspace, with many regulators having already issued warnings against it. Some airlines have announced flight diversions in the broader eastern Mediterranean region.

Context

Following a suspected chemical gas attack by the Syrian government on civilians in a rebel-held town on April 7, US President Donald Trump and European leaders have reportedly discussed military responses. It is unclear where Eurocontrol received any information regarding impending missile attacks.

Advice

Travelers on flights through the eastern Mediterranean region are advised to prepare for potentially longer flight times.