Background and purpose of the flight restrictions
Military exercises often require large-scale airspace closures in order to safely carry out manoeuvres with jets, transport aircraft and unmanned systems. Such exercises take place regularly, but are usually announced well in advance to minimise disruption to civilian air traffic. New restricted areas have now been published for the period from 3 to 13 November 2025.
During the activation periods, all flights not directly involved in the exercise are prohibited in the airspace concerned. Exceptions apply to government flights, rescue and police operations as well as IFR flights following prior clearance by air traffic control.
Temporal and spatial expansion
The areas will be activated on the following days:
- 3 to 7 November 2025
- 10 to 13 November 2025
between 09:30 and 12:30 UTC
This affects various sectors with height limits between FL060 (approx. 1,800 m) and FL280 (approx. 8,500 m). The exact coordinates have been published by DFS and can be found in the current "Nachrichten für Luftfahrer" (NfL) as well as in common flight preparation tools.
Impact on general aviation
For private and business travellers, this means careful flight preparation:
- Route planning: IFR and VFR flights may have to be diverted.
- Time adjustments: Take-offs and approaches in the affected areas should be planned outside the activation times.
- Radio contact: Clearance from the responsible air traffic control centre is mandatory for IFR transits.
Pilots of gliders or microlight aircraft as well as drone operators must strictly observe the closures, as military training flights often involve high speeds and complex manoeuvres.
Recommendations for pilots
DFS and the German Meteorological Service provide up-to-date airspace data in their digital services. Pilots should check this before every flight:
- the daily updated NfL and NOTAMs check,
- if required via radio Release catch up,
- Plan alternative routes in case the practice times change at short notice.
Flying schools and clubs are asked to inform their members about the restrictions in order to avoid airspace violations.
Conclusion
The temporary airspace restrictions are a necessary step in order to conduct military exercises safely and efficiently. For general aviation, this means above all forward planning and timely information. Those who prepare carefully and follow the official publications can also fly safely during the activation periods.
Source references:
NFL (the link requires a subscription to Eisenschmidt)