French aviation regulator DGAC has released details of the temporary prohibited area (ZIT) subject to airspace closures. This will become active for the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
This temporary airspace closure is a security measure implemented by French authorities. It has been enforced to ensure a smooth and safe opening for the prestigious event.
Temporary No-Fly Zone Paris Region
The skies above Paris will be clear of most air traffic for a few hours during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games.
The airspace closure will take effect on Friday, 26 July 2024. Flights will be restricted within a large circle centered on Notre Dame Cathedral. The affected zone has a radius of approximately 80 nautical miles.
This zone encompasses a significant area of around 28,900 square miles. During the time of activity, flight restrictions will be placed on airspace from ground level.
Except for emergency services and operators with special flight permissions, this will become a ‘no-fly zone’ for other airspace users.
Airlines, commercial operators and private operators have been requested to delay flight operations and/or avoid the zone during the active period.
The ZIT area will affect the major Paris hubs of Charles de Gaulle and Orly as well as the airport of Beauvais.
Timeframe and Impact
The no-fly zone will be in effect from 6:30 pm to midnight local time in Paris (12:30 to 18:00 UTC). This timeframe coincides with the opening ceremony, minimizing potential security risks during the event.
Travelers can expect disruptions to flight schedules, particularly arrivals and departures at the major airports, Charles de Gaulle airport (CDG) and Paris-Orly airport (ORY).
Airlines will reschedule flights or reroute transiting flights in order to avoid the restricted airspace.
The major low-cost carrier easyJet has cancelled approximately 100 flights operating from the French capital as a result of the closures.
DGAC advisory publication AIP SUP 095/24 sets out the mandatory requirements for the restricted zone.
It notes that French military, customs, police, gendarmerie, civil security or emergency aircraft, will be exempt from restrictions.
Similarly, aircraft tasked with filming the event and flights carrying dignitaries involved with the event will be exempt.
All aircraft may only enter the restricted zone with the agreement of the civil-military air operations coordination centre.
Summary
For travelers with flights booked around this date, it’s crucial to stay informed. Contact your airline directly to confirm any schedule changes or potential delays due to the airspace closure.
A simple online search for “Paris airspace closure Olympics” can provide you with the latest updates and news articles.
The temporary airspace closure, while causing some inconvenience, prioritizes the safety of athletes, spectators, and everyone involved in the opening ceremony.
By implementing these measures, French authorities aim to ensure a successful and secure start to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
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