The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has cautioned airlines and pilots to exercise vigilance over a large swathe of Pacific Ocean airspace near Central and South America. The alert stems from reported military activity and the potential for interference with satellite navigation.
FAA Issues Safety Notices
In a series of safety notices released this Friday, the FAA stated, “Potential risks to aircraft at all altitudes, including during overflight and arrival and departure phases of flight” exist. The agency specifically cited military operations and interference with Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) as the cause for concern.
The affected airspace includes areas over the Pacific Ocean near western Mexico, as well as Central America, northern South America, and a portion of oceanic airspace controlled by the United States. The FAA characterized the risk as GNSS interference, which can include signal jamming or spoofing, but did not detail the source or specific methods involved.
Mexican Response
Hours after the FAA’s announcements, the Mexican Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation (SICT) released a statement clarifying that the FAA’s measure does not impose operational restrictions on aviation within Mexican territory.
According to the SICT, “This NOTAM (notice to airmen) does not constitute a prohibition, but a precautionary measure aimed at reinforcing attention and care in air operation within certain regions of airspace. There are no operational implications or restrictions for Mexico, nor for Mexican airlines or operators.”
The SICT further explained that the NOTAM was issued exclusively for U.S. civil operators, including airlines and pilots, as the FAA’s authority extends only to issuing regulations applicable to its own country’s operators.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is GNSS interference?
GNSS interference is a category of satellite navigation disruption that can include blocking or spoofing of signals, as described by the FAA.
Does this affect flights in Mexico?
According to the Mexican Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation (SICT), the FAA’s notice does not impose operational restrictions on aviation within Mexican territory.
How long will these warnings be in effect?
The FAA’s notices are scheduled to remain in effect for at least 60 days, extending until March 17th.
Given the ongoing nature of military operations and the potential for unforeseen disruptions, it is possible that the FAA could extend these warnings beyond the initial 60-day period, or issue further advisories as the situation evolves. Airlines may adjust flight paths as a precautionary measure, and pilots will likely remain vigilant for any signs of navigational interference.
