EASA CZIB CZIB-2026-09 — Airspace of Saudi Arabia

Summary

The document titled 'Airspace of Saudi Arabia' is a safety information bulletin issued by EASA concerning the FIR Jeddah (OEJD) airspace at all altitudes and flight levels. It highlights increased risks due to ongoing military conflict and frequent missile and drone attacks by the Houthis targeting Saudi infrastructure, including aviation facilities. The bulletin applies to EU air operators and third-country operators authorized by EASA operating in or through the affected airspace.

What Changed

This document introduces a new safety information bulletin advising against operations within a specifically defined high-risk zone inside Saudi Arabian airspace due to escalated military activities and attacks. It expands the area of concern beyond previously affected southern regions to include deeper parts of Saudi Arabia such as Riyadh, Tabuk, and Yanbu. It also emphasizes the need for enhanced risk assessment and contingency planning by operators.

Why It Matters

This bulletin is critical for aviation professionals as it identifies a volatile and high-risk operating environment that could impact flight safety and operational continuity. Operators must be aware of the increased threat of missile and drone attacks, potential misidentification of civil aircraft, and the activation of air-defense systems. Compliance with these recommendations is essential to avoid safety incidents and ensure regulatory adherence when flying in or near Saudi airspace.

What To Do

Affected air operators should avoid operating within the defined high-risk zone inside FIR Jeddah at all altitudes and exercise caution when operating elsewhere in the FIR. They must maintain up-to-date risk assessments and contingency plans, be prepared for sudden instructions from Saudi authorities, and continuously monitor regional airspace developments through official aeronautical publications and EASA information platforms. These measures should be maintained until at least November 16, 2026, or until further notice.