Laser testing as a safety-relevant special case
Laser experiments in airspace pose a potential risk to pilots. Even comparatively weak beams can significantly impair visibility in the dark or cause glare. With powerful research or military lasers, there is also a risk of eye damage. For this reason, so-called "ED-R areas" (restricted areas) are regularly set up for test phases, which may not be flown through during activation times.
The current area near Ottobeuren was defined by the Federal Ministry of Transport on the basis of Section 17 of the German Air Traffic Regulations (LuftVO). It bears the designation ED-R Ottobeuren and expressly serves to protect air traffic during night-time laser testing.
Location and extent of the restricted area
The area is located south-west of Munich in the area of responsibility of the Munich Flight Information Centre.
- Lateral limitation: Circle with a radius of 8 nautical miles around the coordinates 47°55'44" N / 10°17'14" E.
- Vertical expansion: From the ground (GND) to flight level 500 (around 15,000 metres).
- Activation times: Daily between 19:30 and 03:00 local time (18:30 - 02:00 UTC).
- Validity period: 1 October to 31 December 2025.
During these times, the area is active and may not be flown over.
Who is authorised to fly in the area?
The ban applies to all flightsincluding unmanned aerial systems and model aircraft. Excluded are exclusively:
- Police flights,
- Rescue and disaster control operations,
- Ambulance and emergency flights,
- military operational flights of the Bundeswehr.
These exceptions also only apply on condition that the laser operation has been switched off beforehand by air traffic control and confirmed by the operating organisation. A transit permit for civil flights can be issued in individual cases - but only if no active laser operation is taking place.
The responsible air traffic control centre decides in real time whether it is safe to fly through. The Federal Supervisory Authority for Air Traffic Control (BAF) will not issue a general authorisation during this period.
Background: Why laser restrictions are becoming increasingly relevant
Laser testing in airspace is increasing throughout Europe. In addition to military developments (such as for target systems or defence technology), civilian research projects are also being carried out, for example in the field of satellite communication, atmospheric measurement or laser range technology.
Similar areas have already been established over southern Germany, Lower Saxony and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania in recent years. These tests are usually part of international research programmes that take place under the supervision of state authorities.
Such protective measures are essential, especially at night. Laser beams can reach far above the ground and dazzle pilots, even if they are at a great distance from the source. Modern laser experiments also utilise extremely high-energy beams, some of which reach into the stratosphere.
Significance for general aviation
For private and club pilots, the new ED-R means an additional planning task. Night flight routes in southern Germany in particular should be carefully scrutinised throughout the fourth quarter. Pilots must ensure that they are able to NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen) check regularly and fly around the area during activation times.
The closure also has consequences for drone operations. Operators of commercial or private UAVs are not allowed to use the area - even flights below 120 metres are prohibited.
Conclusion
With the establishment of the restricted flight area ED-R Ottobeuren the Federal Ministry of Transport is taking account of the growing need for safety in connection with laser testing. For pilots, this means increased attention when planning flights, especially night flights in southern Germany.
The measure also illustrates how complex and technology-driven modern airspace has become. Careful coordination is required between research, safety and air traffic - and this begins for every pilot with a glance at the latest aeronautical information.
Source references:
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