Background and aim of the measure
Temporary flight restrictions - known as ED-R (Restricted Areas) - are established whenever flight movements have to be restricted or prohibited in a certain area for safety reasons. These measures can relate to military exercises, major events, state visits or civil defence exercises.
The now defined „ED-R Stendal“ area is located in northern Saxony-Anhalt, roughly between the towns of Stendal, Tangermünde and Havelberg, and is assigned to the Bremen flight information region. The airspace covers a lateral extension of several tens of kilometres and is valid from 2 500 feet above ground to flight level 150 (about 15,000 feet altitude).
According to the announcement, the measure is expected to be used to carry out exercises or security-related missions on behalf of the Bundeswehr or associated government agencies.
Lockdown periods
The flight restrictions will come into force on several days. Specifically, the restrictions apply:
- 27 November 2025: 07:00-17:00 UTC
- 28 November 2025: 07:00-14:00 UTC
- 01 to 05 December 2025: 07:00-17:00 UTC
- 08 and 09 December 2025: 07:00-17:00 UTC
During these time windows, the affected airspace is completely closed to civil air traffic. Outside of these times, the airspace can be used again as normal. Pilots should monitor the activation on a daily basis via the Flight preparation services (NOTAM) or via Langen Information on the frequencies 119.825 MHz and 132.650 MHz.
Who can continue to fly?
In principle, all aircraft, model aircraft and unmanned aerial systems are prohibited from flying. Only certain flights are exempt from this regulation if they have been approved in advance by the responsible air traffic control centre. These include
- Military flights and flights on behalf of the German Armed Forces
- State aircraft
- Police flights
- Flights as part of rescue and disaster control operations
- Ambulance flights
- Flights according to instrument flight rules (IFR)
These exceptions only apply if explicit clearance has been granted by air traffic control.
Significance for general aviation
The measure is particularly important for private pilots, flight schools and air sports enthusiasts, as it affects both VFR flights and the use of drones. Especially in northern Germany, where many visual flights take place over open landscapes and along the Elbe, the closure can significantly restrict air traffic.
Pilots should therefore be sure to check the activation times of the ED-R Stendal area when planning flights in the period from the end of November to the beginning of December.
Conclusion
Between 27 November and 9 December 2025, the airspace over Stendal will be temporarily closed to civil air traffic. This affects VFR flights as well as drone and model aircraft operations. Pilots are strongly advised to check whether the ED-R Stendal area is activated when preparing their flight and to plan detours if necessary.
Source references:
NFL (the link requires a subscription to Eisenschmidt)
