Latvia Closes Eastern Airspace Bordering Russia and Belarus Amid Security Concerns

Airspace Restrictions Implemented

Latvia announced on September 11, 2025, its decision to temporarily close airspace in a 50-kilometer zone along its eastern borders with Belarus and Russia. The initial restriction was set to last until September 18, 2025, but was later extended until October 8, 2025, operating as a night-time no-fly zone. This measure was taken for security reasons, following an assessment by the Latvian Armed Forces.

Reasons for Heightened Security

The decision by Riga came in response to recent incidents, particularly the incursion of Russian drones into Polish airspace on September 10, 2025. Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds emphasized that these events constituted a 'clear violation of NATO airspace' and served as a 'wake-up call'. While no direct threat to Latvia was identified, the measures are considered preventive to avoid escalation and enhance national defense readiness.

Operational Details and Objectives

The restricted airspace applies to altitudes up to 6,000 meters, specifically targeting unmanned aerial systems (drones) that typically operate at lower levels. Flights above this altitude remain unaffected. The closure aims to achieve several objectives:

• Enable full control and monitoring of the restricted zone.
• Facilitate faster detection of unauthorized flying objects.
• Secure a corridor for NATO air policing missions and Latvian air defense systems.
• Allow for intensive testing of acoustic surveillance systems and anti-drone scenarios.
• Provide training opportunities for mobile combat units.

The move coincides with Latvia's ongoing large-scale national military exercises, Namejs 2025, which are scheduled from September 2 to October 8, 2025.

Extension and Regional Context

On September 17, 2025, Latvia announced an extension of the partial airspace closure until October 8, 2025. During this extended period, the no-fly zone will be enforced daily from 8:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., effectively creating a night-time curfew for low-altitude air traffic. This adjustment was made after assessing risks, with officials noting that the threat is greatest during dark hours. The Latvian action is part of a broader regional response to escalating tensions, including Poland's earlier restrictions on air traffic along its borders with Belarus and Ukraine, which are in effect until December 9, 2025. The upcoming Zapad-2025 military exercises by Russia and Belarus also contribute to the heightened security posture in the Baltic region.