What are the current restrictions all over Europe?

Dominique Roland • 8 April 2020
in community General Aviation

Dear Friends,

My intent, with this post, is to keep the community informed about the restrictions applicable to GA in our different countries. 

In order to keep the information up-to-date, I will need your (NAA, pilots) support. If you have information or a hyperlink to share, please post a comment and I will update the information published in the main article.

As a general disclaimer, please always double check with your competent authority what are the latest current measures...

-------------------------------------------------------

Austria

For Austria, Austro Control has issued a general NOTAM as a summary for the situation in Austria.
This NOTAM is daily updated an available by a click to the red canner on the Homebriefing system start page.

https://www.homebriefing.com/cms-acg/opencms/de/home/index.html

Belgium

VFR flights in Belgian airspace are prohibited by NOTAM until at least 19th April. Flights of GA aircraft for maintenance purposes are possible but require authorisation.
NOTAM B1584/20
From:03 APR 20 12:04 Till:19 APR 20 23:59
Text:COVID-19: BASED ON THE PROTECTIVE MEASURES IN THE BELGIAN AIRSPACE: VFR FLT PROHIBITED, EXC MEDICAL, POLICE, SAR, STATE, MIL, MAINTENANCE, TECHNICAL INSPECTION FLT AND FLT TO ASSURE FUNCTIONING OF THE STATE.
https://mobilit.belgium.be/fr/transport_aerien/covid_19_coronavirus

Cyprus

** NATIONAL RESTRICTIONS NOTAM C0009/20 **
COVID-19:FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS
DUE TO COVID-19 MEASURES ALL LOCAL FLIGHTS ARE SUSPENDED, EXCEPT:
I.STATE AIRCRAFT
II.MAINTENANCE FLIGHTS AFTER APPROVAL BY THE DCA CYPRUS-SRU
FROM: 20 MAR 2020 11:49 TO: 30 APR 2020 23:59 EST

** INTERNATIONAL RESTRICTIONS NOTAM A0539/20 **
COVID-19:FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS
NO FLIGHTS ARE ALLOWED BETWEEN THE AIRPORTS OF THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS AND AIRPORTS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION INCLUDING ICELAND, LICHTENSTEIN, NORWAY (EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AREA), SWITZERLAND AND BETWEEN THE AIRPORTS OF THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS AND AIRPORTS OF THIRD COUNTRIES, EXCEPT:
1.CARGO FLIGHTS
2.FERRY FLIGHTS FOR THE PURPOSE OF TRANSPORTING INDIVIDUALS FROM THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS
3.HUMANITARIAN/AMBULANCE/REPATRIATION FLIGHTS OR OTHER INDIVIDUAL FLIGHTS FOR URGENT PURPOSES TO/FROM CYPRUS ONLY AFTER PERMISSION BY THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT COMMUNICATION AND WORKS)
FROM: 02 APR 2020 12:54 TO: 17 APR 2020 21:00

Czech Republic

  1. Operations are performed:
  • Without access of public to the airport area,
  • Without persons which at the moment does not contribute to execution of air operations, airport infrastructure or airplanes.
  1. The number of persons during operations must be minimised as much as possible.
  2. There is performed the derailed evidence of all persons participating on air operations, serving the airport infrastructure or airplanes maintenance.
  3. Flight preparation and flight execution must be done by means limiting the exposure of the crew to other authorised persons on the airport.
  4. In case of gliding operations outside the airport information zone, the pilot must have secured in advance the return transport by to the airport
    (in case of field landing) ideally by family member.
  5. In case of training operations, these are performed with maximum 2 persons on board. Each instructor must have allocated only one aircraft for
    whole day. Crew must use (as everywhere in CZ on public places) breathing protection masks and latex gloves. After finishing the series of
    flight with one pilot (student) the microphone / headset sleeves must be changed. All controls, avionics, handles etc. must be decontaminated
    by virostatic agent (ideally at least 70% alcohol).
  6. Pre-flight preparation should be done ideally remotely from home conditions. If this is not possible, then in airport premises, there must
    be maximum 2 persons in one room and be distant at least 2 meters.
  7. In case of landing at another airport, this must be coordinated in advance with such respective airport gestor. If it is not essential for safety,
    the crew should not disembarked the aircraft on visited airports.
  8. These conditions does not apply for other preceding exemptions adopted in past. E.g. operation of own aircraft in single occupation as mean
    of transport to get to you place of employment.
  9. In case the participant of air operations is later tested positively on Coronavirus, he is obliged to inform the persons who is responsible
    for organising respective air operations.
  10. Must be respected all generally adopted measures against spread of Coronavirus.

Finland

  • Uusimaa region (which includes Helsinki) is isolated from the rest of Finland until the 19th of April, and only necessary traffic across county boarders is allowed. Flying within the region is allowed. Crossing the restricted Uusimaa region borders is permitted if you file a flight plan. Crossing and landing is not, unless the flight is a cross country flight of an approved training course.

    Other permissible exceptions are:

      *   public official duty

      *   for work, business, study or to exercise positions of social trust

      *   to perform military service or other statutory duty

      *   for a compelling personal reason.

    Strong recommendation to avoid unnecessary travel.

Estonia

+ IN LIGHT OF THE SPREAD OF CORONA VIRUS (COVID-19) THE GOVERNMENT OF ESTONIA HAS TEMPORARILY IMPOSED RESTRICTIONS ON CROSSING SCHENGEN BORDER AND REINTRODUCTION BORDER CONTROL.
ONLY ESTONIAN CITIZENS AND ESTONIAN RESIDENTS HOLDING RESIDENCY PERMIT, A RIGHT OF RESIDENCE OR REGISTERED IN ESTONIAN POPULATION REGISTER MAY CROSS THE NATIONAL BORDER TO ENTER ESTONIAN TERRITORY AS WELL AS EMPLOYEES OF FOREIGN DIPLOMATIC INSTITUTIONS OR CONSULATES IN ESTONIA OR THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS, THE NEEDING TO ENTER ESTONIA IN THE FRAMEWORK OF INTERNATIONAL MILITARY COOPERATION OR WHO ARE INVOLVED IN CARGO EXPORT OR VITAL HEALTHCARE OR OTHER
SERVICES REQUIRED IN THE EMERGENCY SITUATION MAY ENTER ESTONIAN TERRITORY PROVIDED THAT THEY DO NOT HAVE THE SYMPTOMS OF THE DISEASE.
ENTRY TO ESTONIA IS ALLOWED FOR FOREIGN NATIONALS WHO NEED TO TRAVEL THROUGH ESTONIA IN TRANSIT IN ORDER TO REACH THEIR COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE, PROVIDED THEY HAVE NO SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19 VIRUS. ALL OTHER FOREIGNERS SHALL RECEIVE A SPECIAL PERMISSION FROM POLICE AND BORDER GUARD BOARD.

https://aim.eans.ee/notampib/

France

https://www.ecologique-solidaire.gouv.fr/aviation-legere

All recreational flights, including flight instruction, are banned.

LFFA-F0565/20A02 Q) LFXX/QAFXX/IV/NBO/ E/000/999/4412N00040E460 A) LFBB LFEE LFFF LFMM LFRR B) 2020 Apr 16 15:30 C) 2020 May 10 23:59 E) COVID-19 : PASSENGER RESTRICTIONS : I - IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FRENCH PRIME MINISTER'S INSTRUCTION DATED APRIL 15 ABOUT BORDER CONTROLS, FRANCE STRENGHTENS INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL BORDER CONTROLS. MOVEMENTS TO METROPOLITAN FRANCE ARE AUTHORIZED ONLY FOR THE REASONS SET OUT IN PARAGRAPHS II AND III. II - FOR THIRD-COUNTRY NATIONALS : - PASSENGERS PRIMARILY LIVING IN FRANCE OR IN THE EU OR ASSIMILATED COUNTRIES, HOLDERS OF A RESIDENCE PERMIT OR A FRENCH OR EUROPEAN VALID LONG-STAY VISA, ACCOMPANIED BY THEIR PARTNER AND CHILDREN, - PASSENGERS IN TRANSIT TO REACH THEIR COUNTRY OF ORIGIN, HOLDERS OF A TRAVEL DOCUMENT TO THEIR COUNTRY OF ORIGIN AND REMAINING IN THE INTERNATIONAL AREA WITH NO INTENTION TO ENTER THE NATIONAL TERRITORY, PASSENGERS TRAVELLING TO THEIR COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE ARE ALSO ELIGIBLE, - HEALTHCARE WORKERS SUPPORTING THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19, - GOODS CARRIERS, INCLUDING SEAMEN, - FLIGHT AND CARGO CREWS, OR TRAVELLING AS A PASSENGER TO THEIR DEPARTURE BASE, - DIPLOMATIC MISSION STAFF, OR INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS STAFF WORKING IN HEADQUARTERS OR OFFICES LOCATED IN FRANCE, HOLDERS OR SPECIAL RESIDENCE PERMIT, A TYPE D VISA OR AN ID ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS. III - FOR NATIONALS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION AND ASSIMILATED COUNTRIES (NATIONALS OF UNITED KINGDOM, ICELAND, LIECHTENSTEIN, NORWAY, ANDORRA, MONACO, SWITZERLAND, VATICAN AND SAN MARINO): - PASSENGERS PRIMARILY LIVING IN FRANCE, ACCOMPANIED BY THEIR PARTNER AND CHILDREN, - PASSENGERS TRANSITING THROUGH FRANCE TO REACH THEIR RESIDENCE, ACCOMPANIED BY THEIR PARTNER AND CHILDREN,

LFFA-F0565/20B02 Q) LFXX/QAFXX/IV/NBO/ E/000/999/4412N00040E460 A) LFBB LFEE LFFF LFMM LFRR B) 2020 Apr 16 15:30 C) 2020 May 10 23:59 E) - HEALTHCARE WORKERS SUPPORTING THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19, - GOODS CARRIERS, INCLUDING SEAMEN, - FLIGHT AND CARGO CREWS, OR TRAVELLING AS A PASSENGER TO THEIR DEPARTURE BASE, - DIPLOMATIC MISSION STAFF, OR INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS STAFF WORKING IN HEADQUARTERS OR OFFICES LOCATED IN FRANCE, HOLDERS OR SPECIAL RESIDENCE PERMIT, A TYPE D VISA OR AN ID ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS. IV - FRENCH NATIONALS AND THEIR PARTNER AND CHILDREN ARE NOT SUBJECT TO ANY RESTRICTIONS. V - PRIOR TO THEIR DEPARTURE TO METROPOLITAN FRANCE, ALL THE TRAVELLING PEOPLE SHALL COMPLETE A FORM ENTITLED 'ATTESTATION DE DEPLACEMENT INTERNATIONAL DEROGATOIRE VERS LA FRANCE METROPOLITAINE', IN ORDER TO VERIFY ON WHAT GROUNDS THEY WISH TO ENTER THE FRENCH TERRITORY. VI - THE FORM CAN BE FOUND ON THE INTERNET. IT SHALL BE PRINTED OU COPIED BY HAND. IT SHALL BE PRESENTED BY THE PASSENGER TO THE AIR CARRIER BEFORE DEPARTURE, AND TO THE AUTHORITIES IN CHARGE OF BORDER CONTROL ON ARRIVAL. VII - AIR CARRIERS INFORM THEIR PASSAGERS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE BEFORE THE FLIGHT ABOUT THIS REQUIREMENT. AIR CARRIERS DENY BOARDING TO PASSENGERS WHO DO NOT MEET WITH ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS.

Germany

The situation is a bit more complicated as there are 16 Federal States / Länder in Germany, and no uniform set of rules. In General there are no specific restrictions for aviation in Germany. But there is the general requirement that you need to keep a distance of minimum 1,5 meters to people you are not living with in your household, which is most restrictive for flying in narrow GA cockpits. No tourism is allowed, you are not even allowed to move from one Federal State to the other. And many big airports as well as small aerodromes are either closed or restricted in usage.

Additionnaly in Germany for all flying clubs should follow the recommendations from "DAec" refer to this link (unfortunately only in German):
https://www.daec.de/news-details/covid-19-handlungsempfehlung-fuer-daec…
to sum up the situation: ALL GA flying is "suspended", no instruction, no work on airplanes, no club meetings, etc.

ICAO

ICAO website:
https://www.icao.int/safety/Pages/COVID-19-Airport-Status.aspx

Ireland

IAA have provided the following guidance for GA - basically don’t fly..

Important COVID 19 Reminder
NOTICE TO: General Aviation Aircraft Operators
Operators and Pilots are reminded that the Public Health Measures introduced by the Irish Government on the 25th of March 2020 are applicable to all individuals regardless of their mode of transport. These Government measures require that except for essential service providers, everyone else in Ireland has to stay at home, only going out for a few key reasons, such as shopping for food or for exercise within 2km of your place of residence.

In keeping with these measures, aircraft should not be operated unless the movement of the aircraft conforms with government advised exceptions. As a rule of thumb, recreational or private transport flights should not be undertaken in the State. Any such, unnecessary flights in the State are considered to be the same as unnecessary journeys by car and may therefore be subject to a law enforcement investigation. Additionally, it is possible that any unnecessary flights that experience an emergency situation may divert emergency services from other necessary tasks.

Netherlands

In the Netherlands most flying clubs are closed. The official position is that: UNTIL 28 APR. 2020 (EST); SFC+
Covid-19: flight restrictions. In accordance with physical distancing measures covid-19 by local authorities based on directives ministries of health and justice, general aviation flights including aerial work with POB, other than household members, distance less than 1,5M are prohibited. Police, HEMS and SAR flights are exempted.

Which implies Solo flights are possible.

Norway
COVID-19: FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS - VFR AND SCHOOL FLIGHTS IN NORWAY. ACCORDING TO THE TEMPORARY NATIONAL REGULATION PROMULGATED
14.03.2020 BY THE NORWEGIAN CAA, A RESTRICTED AREA HAS BEEN
ESTABLISHED IN ALL NORWEGIAN AIRSPACE (NORWAY FIR).
ALL FLIGHTS ACCORDING TO VISUAL FLIGHT RULES (VFR) IN NORWEGIAN AIRSPACE ARE PROHIBITED UNLESS PRE-APPROVED BY AVINOR ANS. ALL SCHOOL FLIGHTS IN NORWEGIAN AIRSPACE ARE PROHIBITED UNLESS PRE-APPROVED BY AVINOR ANS. REQUESTS FOR PRE-APPROVAL (PPR) OF FLIGHTS MUST BE FORWARDED TO
OPERATIVSTOTTE.NACC(AT)AVINOR.NO
(MANNED 08-22 LOCAL TIME MON-FRI AND 10-17 LOCAL TIME SAT-SUN-PUBLIC HOLIDAYS) PREFERABLY 1 DAY PRIOR TO PLANNED DEPARTURE. FOR CRITICAL FLIGHTS OUTSIDE THESE HOURS, CONTACT LOCAL ATS UNITS DIRECTLY. THESE RESTRICTIONS DO NOT APPLY TO MILITARY, POLICE, AMBULANCE AND SAR FLIGHTS.
OBSERVATION FLIGHTS CONDUCTED UNDER THE TREATY ON OPEN SKIES ARE ALSO EXEMPTED.

No restrictions on IFR flights. All VFR flights require PPR (for individual flights or standing) due to limited ATC capacity. General national health restrictions preclude more than one person onboard unless they are included in own household. 

Italy

25 May 2020: Good news from Italy, Flights are restarting! Thank you to Europe Air Sport for informing us!

The Notam is attached.

SLOVAKIA
(A0678/20 NOTAMR A0666/20
Q)LZBB/QAFXX/IV /NBO/E/000/999/4844N01942E116
A)LZBB B)2004171630 C)2004302359EST
E)COVID-19: FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS
CIVIL FLIGHTS DEPARTING FROM THE TERRITORY OF ANOTHER STATE AND LANDING IN THE TERRITORY OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC ARE PROHIBITED.
EXEMPTED ARE:
CARGO AND POSTAL FLIGHTS, FLIGHT ENGAGED IN A SEARCH AND RESCUE MISSION, FIRE-FIGHTING FLIGHTS, RESCUE OPERATIONS FLIGHTS IN EMERGENCIES, FLIGHTS OPERATING ON A HUMANITARIAN MISSION, MEDICAL FLIGHTS DECLARED BY MEDICAL AUTHORITIES, TECHNICAL AND POSITIONING FLIGHTS OF AIRCRAFT, TECHNICAL STOPS FOR NON-COMMERCIAL PURPOSE TO REFUEL THE AIRCRAFT AND TO RESPOND TO SOME ABNORMAL SITUATION OR EMERGENCY NEED TO LAND THE AIRCRAFT WITHOUT THE POSSIBILITY OF EMBARKING OR DISEMBARKING OF PASSENGERS AND WITHOUT LOADING AND UNLOADING CARGO, FLIGHTS FOR SUPPORTING ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE STATE WITH THE APPROVAL OF THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC,
FLIGHTS OF AIRCRAFT WITH PASSENGERS ON BOARD WHO HAVE TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT RESIDENCE IN THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC WITH REMARK REPATRIATION IN FPL.)

All major (international) airports are closed by separately issued NOTAMs, but landing permission can be obtained from airport operator office.
Local air traffic and GA is not affected by specific NOTAM but by Government travel and social distancing restrictions only. It means that we are flying normally within country borders, but no other person nor passenger on board is allowed (except family members). Flight training can be performed however under specific sanitary procedures and disinfecting aircraft.
Airport LZSL is closed for civil air traffic and related CTR/TMA are declared as LZR 225/A/B/C/D and civil traffic is excluded, except GA local traffic from airfields inside LZR areas based on special local procedures.
Social meetings, collective trainings and all activity requiring cumulation of personnel are prohibited.
Medical and pilot licenses prolongation are performed according Exemptions issued by CAA of Slovak republic according EASA recommendations.
In case of any questions, just let me know.

Spain

In Spain air space has not been closed but in accordance with article 7 of Royal Decree 463/2020 of 14 march, declaring alarm status in Spain, movement restrictions have been published and are applicable to all citizens.
Movement is only allowed for essential activities such as:
• Acquisition of food, pharmaceuticals and essential items.
• Assistance to health centers.
• Travel to the workplace.
• Return to the place of habitual residence.
• Assistance and care for the elderly, minors, dependents, people with disabilities or especially vulnerable people.
• Displacement to financial and insurance entities.
• Due to force majeure or need.
• Any other activity of a similar nature
For this reason leisure activities are not allowed in Spain.

Sweden

For time beeing in Sweden, there is no ban published for GA-operations.

Switzerland

Most AeroClub have stopped all intruction activity but also members flights.
It's still permitted to fly for leisure within Switzerland but overfly of France territory is not allowed following DGAC decision.
Airports are very quite but open with normal operating hours outside of the PPRs Airport where you need to check.

L’OFAC prolonge la validité des licences et certificats médicaux qui échoient durant la pandémie. Idem pour les examens, etc..
"En gros", tout est bon jusqu’au 19 novembre, avec des exceptions. Voir détails sous:
https://www.bazl.admin.ch/bazl/fr/home/experts/corona_update.html

United Kingdom

Government travel and social distancing restrictions preclude GA activity. Good support from the GA community. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-recreat…

Files

Comments (45)

koumisgeorge@gmail.com

CYPRUS

** NATIONAL RESTRICTIONS NOTAM C0009/20 **
COVID-19:FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS
DUE TO COVID-19 MEASURES ALL LOCAL FLIGHTS ARE SUSPENDED, EXCEPT:
I.STATE AIRCRAFT
II.MAINTENANCE FLIGHTS AFTER APPROVAL BY THE DCA CYPRUS-SRU
FROM: 20 MAR 2020 11:49 TO: 30 APR 2020 23:59 EST

** INTERNATIONAL RESTRICTIONS NOTAM A0539/20 **
COVID-19:FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS
NO FLIGHTS ARE ALLOWED BETWEEN THE AIRPORTS OF THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS AND AIRPORTS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION INCLUDING ICELAND, LICHTENSTEIN, NORWAY (EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AREA), SWITZERLAND AND BETWEEN THE AIRPORTS OF THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS AND AIRPORTS OF THIRD COUNTRIES, EXCEPT:
1.CARGO FLIGHTS
2.FERRY FLIGHTS FOR THE PURPOSE OF TRANSPORTING INDIVIDUALS FROM THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS
3.HUMANITARIAN/AMBULANCE/REPATRIATION FLIGHTS OR OTHER INDIVIDUAL FLIGHTS FOR URGENT PURPOSES TO/FROM CYPRUS ONLY AFTER PERMISSION BY THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT COMMUNICATION AND WORKS)
FROM: 02 APR 2020 12:54 TO: 17 APR 2020 21:00

Hervé Liboureau

Switzerland situation
Most AeroClub have stopped all intruction activity but also members flights.
It's still permitted to fly for leisure within Switzerland but overfly of France territory is not allowed following DGAC decision.
Airports are very quite but open with normal operating hours outside of the PPRs Airport where you need to check.

L’OFAC prolonge la validité des licences et certificats médicaux qui échoient durant la pandémie. Idem pour les examens, etc..
"En gros", tout est bon jusqu’au 19 novembre, avec des exceptions. Voir détails sous:
https://www.bazl.admin.ch/bazl/fr/home/experts/corona_update.html

Kyle Martin

Belgium Situation:
VFR flights in Belgian airspace are prohibited by NOTAM until at least 19th April. Flights of GA aircraft for maintenance purposes are possible but require authorisation.
NOTAM B1584/20
From:03 APR 20 12:04 Till:19 APR 20 23:59
Text:COVID-19: BASED ON THE PROTECTIVE MEASURES IN THE BELGIAN AIRSPACE: VFR FLT PROHIBITED, EXC MEDICAL, POLICE, SAR, STATE, MIL, MAINTENANCE, TECHNICAL INSPECTION FLT AND FLT TO ASSURE FUNCTIONING OF THE STATE.
https://mobilit.belgium.be/fr/transport_aerien/covid_19_coronavirus

Anonymous (not verified)

In Italy. latest active notam is:

C0337/20 NOTAMR C0325/20 Q) LIXX/QOEXX/IV/NBO/E/000/195/4339N01139E999 A) LIBB LIMM LIRR PART 2 OF 2 B) 2003201454 C) 2004192359 EST E) ENGLISH TEXT: COVID-19: WITH EXCEPTION FOR SICILY AND SARDINIA REGIONS, IN ALL ITALIAN AIRPORT OPENED TO GENERAL AVIATION ACTIVITY, AIRFIELDS/HELISURFACES/HYDROSURFACES ALSO OCCASIONAL AERIAL WORK ACTIVITY IS PERMITTED. IN THOSE AIRPORTS LISTED AT ARTICLE 2, PARAGRAPH 1 OF DECREE NR 112 ISSUED ON 12 MARCH 2020 BY MINISTER OF INFRASTRUCTURES AND TRANSPORTS (LIPY, LIBD, LIPE, LIMJ, LICA, LIMC, LIRN, LIBP, LIRP, LIMF, LIPZ, LIRF) GENERAL AVIATION FLT IS PERMITTED. IN BOTH CASES FLIGHT IS AUTHORIZED ONLY IF THE PILOT GIVES TO THE PUBLIC SECURITY AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION IN THE TERRITORY WHERE THE AIRPORT/AIRFIELD/HELISURFACE/HYDROSURFACE OF DESTINATION IS LOCATED, AT LEAST TWO HOURS IN ADVANCE, COMMUNICATIONS ACCORDING TO ARTICLE 9 OF MINISTERIAL DECREE ISSUED ON 1ST FEB 2006 TOGETHER WITH THE SELF-DECLARATION OF PROVEN WORK, NECESSITY, HEALTH OR RETURNING HOME REASONS, AS REGULATED IN RELEVANT DECREE ISSUED BY MINISTER OF INTERIOR. RMK: A GENERAL AVIATION FLT IS PERMITTED TO LIRF ONLY IF ACFT IS WITHIN AN AIR OPERATOR CERTIFICATE (AOC))

Reality is that all GA activity is stopped, because many clubs and secondary airports are closed due to social distancing requirements.

It is expected that the limitations will be prolonged after 19 April.

PPL license validity can be extended up to four months with a safety briefing.

Only Class 1 and Class 3 Medical licenses can be extended in validity...

Ciao,

Daniele

Anonymous (not verified)

UPDATE: The above mentioned limitation validity has been extended to MAY 20, 2020.

Meanwhile, ENAC issued a notice allowing Pilot-Owners of GA Aircrafts to travel to airports to carry-out maintenance activities. However, this is subject to preventive notification to local prefecture.

Karel Abbenes

Good morning all,

In the Netherlands most flying clubs are closed. The official position is that: UNTIL 28 APR. 2020 (EST); SFC+
Covid-19: flight restrictions. In accordance with physical distancing measures covid-19 by local authorities based on directives ministries of health and justice, general aviation flights including aerial work with POB, other than household members, distance less than 1,5M are prohibited. Police, HEMS and SAR flights are exempted.

Which implies Solo flights are possible.

Stay healty!

Thomas Hytten

Norway
EDIT: Update Norway 15.04.2020 - The general PPR requirement for VFR flights has now been removed. PPR is still required for VFR flights in certain TMAs due to combined sectors and low staffing. PPR requirements published on NOTAM.

General national health restrictions preclude more than one person onboard unless they are included in own household.

Exemptions for FCL and MED published in accordance with the EASA template.

Javier Asenjo

Spain
In Spain air space has not been closed but in accordance with article 7 of Royal Decree 463/2020 of 14 march, declaring alarm status in Spain, movement restrictions have been published and are applicable to all citizens.
Movement is only allowed for essential activities such as:
• Acquisition of food, pharmaceuticals and essential items.
• Assistance to health centers.
• Travel to the workplace.
• Return to the place of habitual residence.
• Assistance and care for the elderly, minors, dependents, people with disabilities or especially vulnerable people.
• Displacement to financial and insurance entities.
• Due to force majeure or need.
• Any other activity of a similar nature
For this reason leisure activities are not allowed in Spain.

Michael Orf

Good morning all, situation in Germany for all flying clubs is, to follow the recommendations from "DAec" refer to this link (unfortunately only in German):
https://www.daec.de/news-details/covid-19-handlungsempfehlung-fuer-daec…
to sum up the situation: ALL GA flying is "suspended", no instruction, no work on airplanes, no club meetings, etc. Most of us are looking forward to go back to flying and to stay current and to stay safe!
But before we can start flying and go back to our GA-life, we have to ensure that we won the COVID-19 battle!
All stations: Stay healthy and virus free!

Magnus Axelsson

Dear all! For time beeing in Sweden, there is no ban published for GA-operations. Future will tell if this is the correct action. Best regards.

Risto Roosve

Estonia
+ IN LIGHT OF THE SPREAD OF CORONA VIRUS (COVID-19) THE GOVERNMENT OF ESTONIA HAS TEMPORARILY IMPOSED RESTRICTIONS ON CROSSING SCHENGEN BORDER AND REINTRODUCTION BORDER CONTROL.
ONLY ESTONIAN CITIZENS AND ESTONIAN RESIDENTS HOLDING RESIDENCY PERMIT, A RIGHT OF RESIDENCE OR REGISTERED IN ESTONIAN POPULATION REGISTER MAY CROSS THE NATIONAL BORDER TO ENTER ESTONIAN TERRITORY AS WELL AS EMPLOYEES OF FOREIGN DIPLOMATIC INSTITUTIONS OR CONSULATES IN ESTONIA OR THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS, THE NEEDING TO ENTER ESTONIA IN THE FRAMEWORK OF INTERNATIONAL MILITARY COOPERATION OR WHO ARE INVOLVED IN CARGO EXPORT OR VITAL HEALTHCARE OR OTHER
SERVICES REQUIRED IN THE EMERGENCY SITUATION MAY ENTER ESTONIAN TERRITORY PROVIDED THAT THEY DO NOT HAVE THE SYMPTOMS OF THE DISEASE.
ENTRY TO ESTONIA IS ALLOWED FOR FOREIGN NATIONALS WHO NEED TO TRAVEL THROUGH ESTONIA IN TRANSIT IN ORDER TO REACH THEIR COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE, PROVIDED THEY HAVE NO SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19 VIRUS. ALL OTHER FOREIGNERS SHALL RECEIVE A SPECIAL PERMISSION FROM POLICE AND BORDER GUARD BOARD.

https://aim.eans.ee/notampib/

There are no specific restrictions for local GA.

Stay healthy!

Harry Karlsson

Finland will remove the restriction pertaining to travel in and out of the Uusimaa region as of today. The restriction is lifted as there are no legal grounds for such travel restrictions anymore. The Police is currently removing the roadblocks on the major highways. People are advised to restrict their travel notwithstanding. As the parliament will set forth with the legislature concerning the removal of travel restrictions, flying and boating across the Uusimaa region borders will be legal for Citizens.

humrv7@gmail.com

In Ireland the IAA have provided the following guidance for GA - basically don’t fly..

Important COVID 19 Reminder
NOTICE TO: General Aviation Aircraft Operators
Operators and Pilots are reminded that the Public Health Measures introduced by the Irish Government on the 25th of March 2020 are applicable to all individuals regardless of their mode of transport. These Government measures require that except for essential service providers, everyone else in Ireland has to stay at home, only going out for a few key reasons, such as shopping for food or for exercise within 2km of your place of residence.

In keeping with these measures, aircraft should not be operated unless the movement of the aircraft conforms with government advised exceptions. As a rule of thumb, recreational or private transport flights should not be undertaken in the State. Any such, unnecessary flights in the State are considered to be the same as unnecessary journeys by car and may therefore be subject to a law enforcement investigation. Additionally, it is possible that any unnecessary flights that experience an emergency situation may divert emergency services from other necessary tasks.

Jozef Jankovic

SLOVAKIA
(A0678/20 NOTAMR A0666/20
Q)LZBB/QAFXX/IV /NBO/E/000/999/4844N01942E116
A)LZBB B)2004171630 C)2004302359EST
E)COVID-19: FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS
CIVIL FLIGHTS DEPARTING FROM THE TERRITORY OF ANOTHER STATE AND LANDING IN THE TERRITORY OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC ARE PROHIBITED.
EXEMPTED ARE:
CARGO AND POSTAL FLIGHTS, FLIGHT ENGAGED IN A SEARCH AND RESCUE MISSION, FIRE-FIGHTING FLIGHTS, RESCUE OPERATIONS FLIGHTS IN EMERGENCIES, FLIGHTS OPERATING ON A HUMANITARIAN MISSION, MEDICAL FLIGHTS DECLARED BY MEDICAL AUTHORITIES, TECHNICAL AND POSITIONING FLIGHTS OF AIRCRAFT, TECHNICAL STOPS FOR NON-COMMERCIAL PURPOSE TO REFUEL THE AIRCRAFT AND TO RESPOND TO SOME ABNORMAL SITUATION OR EMERGENCY NEED TO LAND THE AIRCRAFT WITHOUT THE POSSIBILITY OF EMBARKING OR DISEMBARKING OF PASSENGERS AND WITHOUT LOADING AND UNLOADING CARGO, FLIGHTS FOR SUPPORTING ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE STATE WITH THE APPROVAL OF THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC,
FLIGHTS OF AIRCRAFT WITH PASSENGERS ON BOARD WHO HAVE TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT RESIDENCE IN THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC WITH REMARK REPATRIATION IN FPL.)

All major (international) airports are closed by separately issued NOTAMs, but landing permission can be obtained from airport operator office.
Local air traffic and GA is not affected by specific NOTAM but by Government travel and social distancing restrictions only. It means that we are flying normally within country borders, but no other person nor passenger on board is allowed (except family members). Flight training can be performed however under specific sanitary procedures and disinfecting aircraft.
Airport LZSL is closed for civil air traffic and related CTR/TMA are declared as LZR 225/A/B/C/D and civil traffic is excluded, except GA local traffic from airfields inside LZR areas based on special local procedures.
Social meetings, collective trainings and all activity requiring cumulation of personnel are prohibited.
Medical and pilot licenses prolongation are performed according Exemptions issued by CAA of Slovak republic according EASA recommendations.
In case of any questions, just let me know.

Thomas Hytten

Update Norway - The general PPR requirement for VFR flights has now been removed. PPR is still required for VFR flights in certain TMAs due to combined sectors and low staffing. PPR requirements published on NOTAM.

Norwegian Institute of Public Health advises social distance. This precludes more than one person on board small aircraft unless they are included in own household. Good practice/procedures and guidelines are established for airlines to prevent transmission of COVID-19. Guidelines for flight training and training organizations are also under way.
Read more about national health rules and recommendations here:
https://www.fhi.no/en/id/infectious-diseases/coronavirus/

Exemptions for FCL and MED published in accordance with the EASA template are in place.

Hervé Liboureau

Great document Emmanuel. Do you know the status for maintenance flights cross borders, restricted or same as maintenance flights and can you do them IFR ?

Emmanuel Davidson

From what I was able to gather. All maintenance flights are considered as such. Authorities usually publish restrictions as follows: VFR, around the airfield, usually 10 nm, not more.
Ferry flights are Ferry flights. Point A to Point B, from where the aircraft is currently located to the maintenance facility, shortest route, IFR accepted usually.
There are very few if any cross border flights at this time.

Axel-Stéphane Smorgrav

To be precise, in France recreational flights, and flight instruction, have not been explicitly banned. The link provided to the DGAC website only states that it is not allowed to leave home without a valid reason, and recreational flying is not on the list of valid reasons. Once that measure is lifted, and we can travel up to 100 km from home, we should be able to go to the airport, hence fly.

Emmanuel Davidson

Hello Axel-Stephane,
I have to disagree with you.

The French DGAC has, on purpose, communicated publicly using very firm words on the ban of leisure and sports flights.
Their press release states clearly that because of the confinement order, leisure and sports flight are prohibited.
Black ink on white paper.

AOPA has been fighting this to allow owners and operators to, at least, ferry their aircraft to a maintenance facility or perform maintenance flights.
This was the reason that pushed me to collate all available data for flying activities across Europe. Since Wednesday, the formal request to reopen flying activities from the first-day od "deconfinement" is on the desk of the prime minister.
This request has been put forward by the DGAC at the request of all the flying community.
At this moment, we did not receive any response.

Please refer to this link:
https://www.ecologique-solidaire.gouv.fr/sites/default/files/CP_DGAC_Co…

And here is a courtesy translation:

Directorate General of Civil Aviation Press release
Paris, Saturday March 21, 2020

Covid-19: Prohibition on conducting a leisure or sports flight

In the fight against the spread of the covid-19 virus, and in application of the decree of 16 March 2020, contacts and travel should be kept to a minimum. The decree specifies the only authorized trips: • trips between the home and the place of exercise of the professional activity, when they are essential for the exercise of activities which cannot be organized in the form of telework (on permanent proof) or business trips that cannot be postponed; • travel to make essential purchases in authorized establishments (list on government.fr); • travel for health reasons; • travel for compelling family reasons, for assistance to vulnerable people or childcare; • short trips, nearby of the home, linked to the individual physical activity of the people, to the exclusion of any collective sports practice, and to the needs of pets. It follows from the above that any travel for the purpose of carrying out a leisure or sports activity flight is prohibited. Thus, the flights in question are de facto impossible, in particular, solo, instruction, training, baptism or discovery flights. The DGAC is aware of the possible consequences concerning licenses, qualifications and certificates which will soon expire. The dissemination of measures for professionals is the first priority and solutions have been found. The search for solutions for leisure aviation is being studied in accordance with the rules of the European Aviation Safety Agency. Many pilots are fully respectful of the above rules but cases of leisure flights have been observed. The exemplarity of light and sport aviation is expected in this health crisis with strict compliance with the prohibition recalled above, any failure of which is punishable and negative for the entire aeronautical community.

Jozef Jankovic

Sad situation.
In fact, there is no real reason to stop private flights if all parties concerned are keeping all regulations and rules including social distancing.
Private pilots, backbone of GA are here very deeply involved to fight pandemic. We are providing voluntary humanitarian flights delivering medical supplies as protective shields or overalls, respirators etc. to small countryside destinations using small airstrips or airfields and former agriculture airstrips. We are delivering to small outpatient clinics, geriatric centers, rescue units in villages, everywhere is need for small but necessary help.
All these activities are always with strong respect to regulations and required social distancing. Air transport is the most safe method for such delivery.
And pilots have to be always in front line if nation is fighting again pandemic.

Karel Abbenes

In the Netherlands as of tomorrow May 11th GA flights with 2 POB possible. See NOTAM
COVID-19: FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS.
IN ACCORDANCE WITH PHYSICAL DISTANCING COVID-19 MEASURES BASED ON
THE DIRECTIVE OF THE MINISTRY OF PUBLIC HEALTH, WELFARE AND SPORT,
GENERAL AVIATION FLIGHTS AND AERIAL WORK WITH MORE THAN 2 POB ARE
PROHIBITED UNLESS A DISTANCE OF AT LEAST 1,5M CAN BE ASSURED AT ALL
TIMES. USE OF FACEMASKS SHALL NOT BE ACCEPTED AS MITIGATING MEASURE.

BEFORE COMMENCING THE FLIGHT, THE PILOT AND PASSENGER/STUDENT SHALL:
1. PERFORM A HEALTH CHECK BASED ON THE RIVM GUIDELINES
(HTTPS://WWW.RIVM.NL/CORONAVIRUS-COVID-19/WERK/CONTACTBEROEPEN)
2. DISINFECT CABIN, SEATS AND INSTRUMENTS.
3. APPLY TO ADDITIONAL COMPANY SPECIFIC PROTOCOL.

THE FOLLOWING TANDEM ACTIVITIES ARE PROHIBITED:
1. (POWERED) PARAGLIDING.
2. PARACHUTE FLIGHT.

POLICE, HEMS AND SAR FLIGHTS ARE EXEMPTED.
FROM: 11 MAY 2020 00:00 TO: 01 JUN 2020 23:59 EST

Axel-Stéphane Smorgrav

Emmanuel, I am sure that you know that a press release has no legal standing. It is however (mostly) a question of semantics. In practice, it amounts to the same thing; we cannot fly. And frankly, I think it would not be wise to oppose it because it would open up a can of other special cases that would seek exemptions from the lockdown.

Where it is important, is that since flying was never banned, there is no need to allow it again. In other words, from the moment we (French residents) are allowed to travel to the airport, we will again be able to fly.

And ferry flights, as well as ground runs, were indeed explicitly allowed by DGAC, provided the planes were operated by a club, or company.

Emmanuel Davidson

Although we see things differently, I think that essentially we are in agreement.
As President of AOPA France, my role is to represent the pilots and/or owners of aircraft based in France.
With the Covid-19 pandemic, we faced a problem where asset protection was impossible for private citizens. I totally understand and agree with the lockdown, but I'm at loss to understand how a private citizen, alone in his own aircraft, during a ferry flight to a maintenance facility represents a danger for the community. Especially when, at the same time he can use his car and go and get the tires changed (all automobile maintenance facilities were allowed to work).

The real problem we were having, until today, is that there was a differentiation in treatment between categories of owners.
Basically, if your plane was owned personally, you were restricted from taking measures to prevent corrosion and irreversible damage to the engines.
After the horrid weather conditions experiences during March, many aircraft were sitting for nearly three months. Every engine manufacturer is extremely clear in their maintenance and continued airworthiness instructions. Sitting idle for three months is a major cause of concern.
So private owners could not do anything to preserve their engine, but aeroclubs and aircraft owned by any form of a corporation were accessible.
I've had countless calls with DGAC representatives and owners that were calling on AOPA to try to reason our government bodies. But, alas, to no avail.

We had some of our members that finally managed to get a mechanic to their plane and had a borescope inspection performed.
Two engines were found corroded to the point where further flight is impossible. Two engines might not be a big number, but for the owners it means a LOT of money. (one four-cylinder and one turbo six-cylinder) Money that should not have been spent.
The problem faced by private aircraft owners is very real. And DGAC and the other ministries did not find a pragmatic solution for them.
So now, as usual, who's going to pay?

Thomas Hytten

Status Norway
COVID-19 FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS: ALL GENERAL USE OF AVINOR OPERATED AERODROMES OUTSIDE PUBLISHED OPENING HOURS, REF AIP NORWAY AD 1.2, IS OPEN FOR USE ON WEEKDAYS BETWEEN 1700 AND 2300 LOCAL TIME, WEEKENDS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS BETWEEN 0700 AND 2300 LOCAL TIME. VFR DAYLIGHT ONLY. ALL AGREEMENTS OF SUCH USE PER THE PFLY ID CARD IS EXTENDED TO
MAY 31. FLIGHT PLAN IS COMPULSORY. PIC SHALL TRANSMIT BLIND AND OVERFLY THE AERODROME BEFORE USE.

NORWAY IS CLOSING THE BORDER TO FOREIGN NATIONALS WHO
LACK A RESIDENCE PERMIT IN NORWAY. FOREIGN NATIONALS WILL BE TURNED AWAY AT THE BORDER. EXEMPTIONS WILL BE PROVIDED FOR EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AREA (EEA) CITIZENS AND THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS WHO RESIDE IN NORWAY.
EXEMPTIONS ARE ALSO BEING PREPARED FOR EEA CITIZENS WHO WORK IN NORWAY. THESE CITIZENS MIGHT NOT BE ABLE TO PROVE THEIR COUNTRY OF RESIDENCY IN AN URGENCY. AS LONG AS THE PERSON CAN PROVE THAT HE/SHE IS A CITIZEN OF A COUNTRY IN THE EEA AND CLAIMS TO LIVE IN NORWAY,
HE/SHE WILL NOT BE EXPELLED. AIRLINES SHOULD FOLLOW THE SAME PRACTICE AND LET THESE PERSONS BOARD.
NORWEGIANS WHO ARE ABROAD AND PEOPLE WHO LIVE OR WORK IN NORWAY CAN STILL ENTER THE COUNTRY. TEMPORARY ENTRY AND EXIT CONTROLS WILL BE INTRODUCED AT THE INTERNAL SCHENGEN BORDER. THE AIRPORTS WILL BE OPEN FOR INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS ENABLING TOURIST/FOREIGN NATIONALS TO
TRAVEL OUT OF NORWAY.

ALL CREW AND MINIMUM SUPPORT PERSONNEL THAT ARE REQUIRED TO CARRY OUT CARGO AND PASSENGER FLIGHTS, ARE EXEMPT FROM THE TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS.
OVERNIGHT STAYS SHOULD BE AVOIDED UNLESS NECESSARY

TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS FOR NORWAY. AIRLINE OPERATORS AND
PILOTS MUST INFORM PASSENGERS TRAVELLING TO NORWAY FROM ABROAD, THAT UPON ARRIVAL THEY WILL BE RETURNED TO ORIGIN OR BE QUARANTINED FOR 14 DAYS. PERSONS THAT CROSSES THE BORDERS BETWEEN NORWAY, SWEDEN OR FINLAND AS PART OF COMMUTING TO AND FROM WORK, ARE EXEMPT FROM THE
GENERAL QUARANTINE REGULATION. ALL CREW AND MINIMUM SUPPORT PERSONNEL THAT ARE REQUIRED TO CARRY OUT CARGO AND PASSENGER FLIGHTS, ARE EXEMPT FROM THE TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS. OVERNIGHT STAYS SHOULD BE AVOIDED.

Harry Karlsson

STATUS FINLAND AS OF 13 MAY to 27 MAY
COVID-19: FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS. THE FINNISH TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONS AGENCY IS RESTRICTING FLIGHTS ARRIVING FROM AND DEPARTING TO DESTINATIONS OUTSIDE FINLAND'S BORDERS IN FINNISH AIRSPACE IN THE ENTIRETY OF FINLAND'S FLIGHT INFORMATION REGION (HELSINKI FIR) WITH EFFECT FROM 21:00 UTC ON 13 MAY 2020 TO 20:59 UTC ON 27 MAY 2020, SO THAT THE FOLLOWING FLIGHTS ARE PERMITTED: - CARGO FLIGHTS AND NECESSARY TRANSPORTATION FOR WHICH THE FINNISH BORDER GUARD HAS ISSUED A BORDER CROSSING PERMIT ARE PERMITTED AT ENONTEKIO, IVALO, JOENSUU, JYVASKYLA, KAJAANI, KEMI-TORNIO, KITTILA, KOKKOLA-PIETARSAARI, KUOPIO, KUUSAMO, LAPPEENRANTA, MIKKELI, OULU, PORI, ROVANIEMI, SAVONLINNA, SEINAJOKI, TAMPERE-PIRKKALA AND VAASA AIRPORTS. - AT HELSINKI, TURKU AND MARIEHAMN AIRPORTS, CARGO FLIGHTS AND THE CARRIAGE OF PASSENGERS IS PERMITTED AS FOLLOWS:
1. WITH REGARD TO THE TERRITORY OF THE EUROPEAN UNION AND THE TERRITORY COVERED BY THE SCHENGEN AGREEMENT, THE FOLLOWING IS PERMITTED: RETURN TRAFFIC TO FINLAND, RETURN TRAFFIC TO OR THROUGH OTHER EU AND SCHENGEN STATES, TRAVEL FOR WORK, AND OTHER NECESSARY TRANSPORTATION.
2. WITH REGARD TO OTHER AREAS, THE FOLLOWING IS PERMITTED: RETURN TRAFFIC TO FINLAND, RETURN TRAFFIC TO OR THROUGH OTHER EU AND SCHENGEN STATES, DEPARTURE FROM FINLAND OF A THIRD-COUNTRY NATIONAL, AND OTHER NECESSARY TRANSPORTATION. NECESSARY TRANSPORTATION IS CONSIDERED TO INCLUDE STATE AVIATION, SEARCH AND RESCUE SERVICES, FIRE PREVENTION, MEDICAL SERVICE FLIGHTS AND OTHER COMPARABLE FLIGHTS CARRIED OUT FOR PARTICULAR REASONS. THE DEFINITION OF NECESSARY TRANSPORTATION ALSO INCLUDES FLIGHTS CARRIED OUT IN THE CONTEXT OF THE OPERATIONS OF THE FINNISH DEFENCE FORCES OR OTHER STATE ADMINISTRATIVE BODIES, OR AT THEIR INSTRUCTION. DEFINITIONS OF TRAVEL FOR WORK AND OTHER NECESSARY TRANSPORTATION IS AVAILABLE ON: WWW.RAJA.FI/CURRENT(UNDERSCORE)ISSUES/GUIDELINES(UNDERSCORE)FOR(UNDER SCORE)BORDER(UNDERSCORE)TRAFFIC THE DECISION SHALL NOT APPLY TO OVERFLIGHTS IN FINNISH AIRSPACE OR TECHNICAL STOPOVERS

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