Poland increases airspace protection and introduces flight restrictions over the eastern part of the country

"After recent Russian provocations and acts of aggression, I have decided to expand the protection of our airspace. We are increasing the activity of our air forces, including F-16 aircraft and helicopters," wrote the Minister of National Defense on X.

Kosiniak-Kamysz writes about the threat from Russia, claiming that provocations "take various forms" and appear in places previously considered safe.

The head of the Ministry of National Defense also informed that systems "for quick response to threats" throughout the country are being strengthened.

The military will limit flights over eastern Poland

From September 10 to December 9, 2026, there will be a temporary restriction on air traffic in the eastern part of Poland - informed the Operational Command of the Branches of the Armed Forces. The zone will cover an area up to a height of approximately 3 kilometers. The restrictions do not apply to passenger aircraft flying at higher altitudes.

The Polish Air Navigation Services Agency published information in the form of a NOTAM message about the creation of a temporary restricted zone EPR134 in eastern Poland.

According to the Operational Command of the Armed Forces, the new solution will replace the currently applicable EPR131 zone. The application for its introduction was submitted by the Operational Commander of the Armed Forces.

The EPR134 zone will apply from ground level to FL95, i.e. - to put it simply - up to an altitude of approximately 3,000 m. meters.

DORSZ noted that the restriction would not apply to passenger aircraft that fly at higher altitudes.

The military explains that the decision is related to the need to ensure the security of Polish airspace in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

"The solutions being introduced are intended to provide all elements of the Polish air defense system with appropriate freedom of action and the ability to effectively respond to potential threats," said the Operational Command of the Armed Forces.

At the same time, it was emphasized that the activities should have the least impact on civil aviation and other airspace users.

Incidents in the Polish region

On Thursday, Polish fighters intercepted a Russian Il-20 reconnaissance plane over the Baltic Sea, said Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz. The machine was located approximately 40 kilometers north of Ustka.

According to the information provided by the head of the Ministry of National Defense, the Russian machine had its identification devices disabled. The minister emphasized that the situation could pose a threat to the safety of civilian traffic in the region.

The interception took place over international waters. Polish airspace was not violated.

This is the second such case in recent days. Earlier, Polish planes intercepted a Russian Il-20 about 30 kilometers north of Łeba.

Russian reconnaissance planes regularly fly over the Baltic Sea without transponders turned on and without filed flight plans. This makes their identification and the work of services responsible for air traffic control difficult.