Spatial and temporal extension of the flight restriction zone
The flight restriction zone, referred to as "ED-R Ramstein", comprises a defined geographical area within the Langen flight information area. The exact extent of the area is determined by the following coordinates:
- 49°29'55" N, 007°25'00" O
- 49°30'35" N, 007°46'35" O
- 49°23'35" N, 007°47'05" O
- 49°22'55" N, 007°25'35" O
- 49°29'55" N, 007°25'00" O
Vertically, the flight restriction zone extends from the ground (GND) up to an altitude of flight level 100 (approx. 10,000 feet above sea level). The flight restrictions apply on 6 September 2024 from 06:00 UTC to 18:00 UTC. However, it is possible that deviating activation times will be announced by the Rhineland-Palatinate police and published by Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH via NOTAM (Notice to Airmen).
Type and scope of flight restrictions
All flights, including the operation of model aircraft and unmanned aerial systems (drones), are prohibited within the described area. However, exceptions apply for specific flights directly related to the Ukraine conference and for:
- State aircraft as part of the Ukraine conference,
- Flights according to instrument flight rules (IFR)that maintain an altitude of 3600 feet MSL or above (alternate procedures are not permitted),
- Flights to and from Ramstein (ETAR),
- Bundeswehr flights,
- Flights of the police forces and on behalf of the police forces,
- Rescue and disaster control operations,
- Ambulance flights.
It is important to emphasise that training flights as well as photo and survey flights, even if they are carried out according to instrument flight rules, are not permitted during this period.
Reporting obligation and communication requirements
Prior notification to the Rhineland-Palatinate police is required for all authorised entries and exits into the flight restriction zone. This notification must be made before the flight under visual flight rules (VFR) and is subject to authorisation by the police. The exact procedures and contact information will be passed on to the relevant authorities by the Rhineland-Palatinate police.
During the stay in the flight restriction zone, a permanent listening watch on the frequency 135.600 MHz ("Police Info") is required. Pilots should note that transit authorisations in accordance with Section 17 of the German Air Traffic Regulations (LuftVO) will not be issued during the activation of the zone.
Legal consequences of non-compliance
Violations of the stipulated flight restrictions will be prosecuted in accordance with Section 62 of the German Air Traffic Act. This emphasises the importance of complying with the regulations in order to ensure the safety of conference participants.
Immediate enforcement of the measure
The immediate enforcement of these flight restrictions was ordered in accordance with Section 80 (2) No. 4 of the German Code of Administrative Court Procedure (VwGO). This emergency measure is necessary to ensure the safety of the participants of the Ukraine conference from potential dangers from the air.
Background and significance of the measure
The establishment of this temporary flight restriction zone emphasises the high security significance of the Ukraine conference. Such conferences often attract international attention and therefore require increased security measures to protect all participants. The strict flight restrictions are part of a comprehensive security concept developed in cooperation with national and international partners in order to recognise and prevent potential threats in the airspace at an early stage.
Source references:
NFL (the link requires a subscription to Eisenschmidt)
