The military government in Niger Republic has reinforced its ban on flights from Nigeria, maintaining that flights originating from Nigeria will not be permitted to land in Niger.
This decision was communicated through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the country's airspace management authority on February 6, 2024. Despite Nigeria's earlier announcement, citing the ECOWAS resolution, reinstating its ban on flights to and from Niger, the Nigerien authorities clarified that commercial flights passing over Nigerien airspace without landing are exempt from the restrictions.
However, the circular emphasized the necessity for Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADB-B) or Radar transponders to remain activated for any flight in Niger Republic airspace.
The airspace remains closed for military, operational, and special flights unless granted prior authorization.
This intricate situation arises amidst regional tensions following the July 2023 coup in Niger and subsequent ECOWAS resolutions against the country, highlighting the diplomatic complexities at play.
