DAMASCUS/BAGHDAD/DOHA (WAM)
Syria’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and Air Transport has announced the temporary closure of the country’s southern air corridors for 12 hours, effective from 11pm Sunday until 11am Monday.
In a statement, the Authority said the measure also includes the suspension of operational activities at Damascus International Airport during the closure period.
It explained that the decision comes in light of recent regional developments and is based on ongoing technical assessments conducted through the specialised risk management committee.
GACA added that the decision has been taken as a precautionary measure following a comprehensive technical evaluation and in coordination with the relevant authorities, with the aim of ensuring the safety of air navigation and flight operations in accordance with internationally recognised standards.
Iraq on Sunday night announced the closure of its airspace to air traffic for a period of 72 hours. The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority.
Meanwhile, Qatar’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) on Sunday dismissed reports circulating on social media claimimg that the Qatar’s airspace has been closed or that air traffic has been suspended.
In a statement, the Authority explained that the current Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) is intended to designate alternative air routes to ensure the continued provision of air navigation services at the highest levels of safety and efficiency in light of the current situation, and in accordance with internationally approved standards and practices.