Niger’s Military Bars “French Aircraft” from Airspace

Niger’s military rulers have issued a ban on “French aircraft” from entering the country’s airspace, according to a statement from the Agency for the Safety of Air Navigation in Africa and Madagascar (ASECNA). The ban, effective immediately, restricts all French aircraft, including those chartered by France, and specifically mentions Air France, from using Niger’s airspace. The ban extends to all military, operational, and special flights unless prior authorization is obtained.

Niger had previously reopened its airspace to commercial flights on September 4 after a month-long closure. The initial closure on August 6 was prompted by concerns of potential intervention from neighboring countries. This came as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) threatened military action to reinstate the elected President Mohamed Bazoum, who was overthrown in a coup on July 26.

Tensions between France and Niger have escalated since the coup, with France offering support to the West African bloc. This recent airspace restriction further strains relations between Paris and Niamey.

Air France has confirmed that it is not currently flying over Niger’s airspace in compliance with the ban. The duration and implications of this ban remain uncertain, impacting both diplomatic and commercial activities in the region.