Based on recent information regarding restricted airspaces, Sudan is a country where planes have been prohibited from flying over.
While no single country universally prohibits all flights over its entire territory at all times unless facing extreme circumstances, airspaces can be closed or deemed too high-risk for commercial or general aviation.
Countries with Restricted Airspace
According to reports on no-fly zones and high-risk areas:
- Sudan: Has had its airspace closed since April 2023. This closure is a direct result of a military coup that took place, making the region unsafe for air traffic. Prohibiting flights over the country is a measure taken during periods of significant conflict or instability.
- Libya: Identified as a high-risk region for aircraft. This status stems from the civil war that has affected the country since 2014. Although some progress was noted in 2020, the ongoing situation means airlines often plan longer flights to avoid Libyan airspace due to safety concerns.
This means that while Libya is frequently avoided, leading to longer flights, Sudan's airspace has been explicitly closed, presenting a more definitive situation where planes are not flying over it during the period of closure mentioned in the reference.
Why Airspace Closes
Airspace over a country or region is typically closed or restricted for critical safety and security reasons:
- Conflict or War: Active fighting, missile threats, or military operations make flying extremely dangerous (as seen in Sudan and Libya).
- Political Instability: Coups or civil unrest can lead to unpredictable situations affecting air traffic control and ground services.
- Natural Disasters: Volcanic ash clouds or severe weather events can render airspace unsafe.
- Specific Events: Large public gatherings or sensitive security operations might require temporary restrictions.
Impact on Air Travel
When airspace over a country is closed or deemed high-risk, it significantly impacts global flight routes:
- Rerouting: Planes must take alternative, often longer, paths.
- Increased Costs: Longer routes consume more fuel and flying time.
- Delays: Rerouting can lead to longer travel times for passengers and cargo.
In conclusion, while several regions might be avoided by pilots for safety, based on the provided reference, Sudan represents a specific instance where a country's airspace has been closed, meaning planes are officially prohibited from flying over it since April 2023.
