EASA SD SD-2021-02: Operations in FIR Minsk (UMMV)

What to do

EASA Member States’ national competent authorities must ensure that operators do not conduct flights in FIR Minsk (UMMV) unless absolutely necessary for safety, and implement these restrictions within two days of the directive's effective date. Authorities should update flight planning systems and issue NOTAMs to notify operators of these restrictions. Operators should avoid Belarusian airspace unless unforeseen circumstances require its use and stay informed of any updates from EASA.

Summary

EASA Safety Directive 2021-02 addresses the safety concerns related to operations in FIR Minsk (UMMV) following the forced diversion of Ryanair flight FR4978 by Belarusian authorities on 23 May 2021. This directive applies to aircraft operators and Air Navigation Service Providers certified under EASA regulations and advises avoiding the use of Belarusian airspace unless necessary for safety reasons. No specific aircraft types or engine models are mentioned in this directive.

What changed

EASA Safety Directive 2021-02 introduces a new safety restriction recommending that operators based in EASA Member States avoid flying in FIR Minsk (UMMV) due to doubts about the safety and management of Belarusian airspace. It mandates national competent authorities to implement restrictions and issue NOTAMs to inform operators of these measures. This is a new regulation responding to an urgent safety issue rather than an amendment to previous directives.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it directly impacts flight planning and operational safety when considering routes through Belarusian airspace. Operators must reassess their route choices to mitigate risks associated with potential airspace misuse and ensure compliance with EASA safety requirements. Compliance teams and MROs need to be aware of these restrictions to avoid regulatory breaches and ensure passenger and crew safety.