LONDON – The UK Government has advised the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to make sure airlines avoid Ukrainian airspace, following the invasion from Russia.
The Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said the following on social media this morning:
“Following the horrific events overnight in Ukraine, I’ve instructed the CAA to ensure airlines avoid Ukraine airspace to keep passengers and crew safe.”
“We continue to stand with the people of Ukraine and work with our international partners to respond to this act of aggression.”
Explosions have been heard in the capital Kyiv this morning, with several flights already diverting to safer pastures.
Air India flight #AI1947 to repatriate Indian citizens in Ukraine is returning to Delhi due to NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions) at Kyiv, Ukraine.✈️
— RadarBox (@RadarBoxCom) February 24, 2022
Track live:https://t.co/PvJ8eaLaAp#Ukraine #India #RadarBox #Aviation https://t.co/rB5k95xiBg pic.twitter.com/Fj3YhAyBiq
One instance has come from an Air India Boeing 787 repatriation flight told to turn back to Delhi due to NOTAMs advising not to enter Ukrainian airspace.
It is unclear at the moment whether anyone can get out of the area via airports, but be sure to check back with AviationSource for further updates as this develops today.