New Flight Restrictions Over UK: Key Areas to Avoid on 17th April 2025

Attention all aviators and residents: On 17th April 2025, the UK skies will see specific airspace restrictions due to four special helicopter flights. Here's what you need to know:

What's Happening?

The Secretary of State has mandated temporary airspace restrictions to ensure these helicopter flights proceed without disruption. These restrictions apply across a large swath of the UK, extending from Aberdeenshire down to London, covering regions like Durham, the West Midlands, and Gloucestershire.

Key Details:

• Restriction Periods: Various time slots throughout the day, starting as early as 08:05 UTC and ending at 15:10 UTC.
• Altitude Limit: No aircraft is allowed to fly below 4,000 feet above mean sea level in the designated zones during the specified times.

Exceptions:

Certain flights are exempt, including:

• Emergency Medical Services
• Police Air Support Units
• Maritime and Coastguard Agency operations
• The King’s Helicopter Flight

Aircraft under specific air traffic control clearances or those already restricted by existing regulations (e.g., prison restrictions) are also exempt.

Why These Restrictions?

The UK Civil Aviation Authority and the Department for Transport have agreed that these measures are in the public interest to prevent any disruption to the planned helicopter operations.

Need More Info?

Detailed maps and times for these restrictions will be available through aviation notices and briefings. For further inquiries, contact Mr. David Ridley, Airspace Regulator at the Civil Aviation Authority, at 03301 382471.

Mark your calendars and plan accordingly if you're flying or operating in these regions on 17th April. Stay informed and safe in the skies!