Civilian Flights Halted as Defence Aircraft Move Through Border Airspace
Rzeszów–Jasionka and Lublin airports temporarily suspended passenger operations on Wednesday after authorities restricted eastern Polish airspace to allow military flights near the Ukrainian border. The Polish Air Navigation Services Agency (PANSA) issued short-term limits, affecting commercial schedules and causing some flights to be delayed or rerouted. Officials emphasized the measure was precautionary, connected to intensified cross-border activity following recent strikes in Ukraine.
Air Traffic Restored Following Short Disruption
Operations at both airports resumed later in the day once military flights concluded and air-traffic controllers confirmed the airspace was safe for civilian travel. Airlines reported minor disruptions but expected schedules to return to normal quickly. Government officials reiterated that Poland had not faced any direct threat, while keeping vigilance high amid ongoing regional security concerns.
Temporary Closures Reflect Ongoing Regional Volatility
This incident follows several short-lived aviation alerts earlier in the year, including a brief suspension at Warsaw Chopin Airport. While Poland’s aviation system has largely remained stable, its proximity to the conflict in Ukraine has led to occasional operational interruptions. Experts note that similar temporary restrictions may continue as long as military activity along the border remains unpredictable.
