The Polish Air Navigation Services Agency (PANSA) has confirmed that Lublin Airport (LUZ) and Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport (RZE) in Poland have reopened after briefly closing to allow a military operation to take place. The airports reportedly returned to normal service at 7:10 am local time Sept. 30, after having operations suspended through the night. The Polish Army has stated that the closure was to allow for military aircraft to operate in the area as a precautionary measure.
Why Were the Airports Closed?
Both airports are located in the South Eastern region of Poland, close to the country’s border with neighbouring Ukraine.
This has led to fears that aircraft leaving airports could be endangered by military jets or drones being used in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
RZE has also been used as a key hub for European nations attempting to transport aid to Ukraine.
The Polish Army has confirmed that it was operating military aircraft from the airports, as a precautionary measure to deter potential Russian strikes throughout the night of Sept. 29.
The Army has also stated that it has prepared ground-based air defence systems in order to protect the airports from “airborne assault means”, that may be used by the Russian military.
Who Uses the Airports?
PANSA confirmed on the morning of Sept. 30, that “Airports in Lublin and Rzeszow have resumed flight operations.”
This news will reassure the international airlines which use LUZ and RZE. As the airports provide a vital gateway for European tourism.
LUZ hosts flights from Poland’s flag carrier LOT Polish Airlines, as well as from the Hungarian airline Wizz Air, and Ireland’s Ryanair.
Both Wizz Air and Ryanair operate a service between LUZ and London Luton Airport (LTN).
RZE meanwhile is also used by all three airlines, as well as the Polish subsidiary of the Czech carrier Smartwings.
Rzeszow is connected to the UK by a range of Ryanair services, including one to Manchester Airport (MAN), and to the U.S. by LOT’s seasonal services to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).
What should governments do to protect airports? Would you feel safe flying to LUZ or RZE? Let us know in the comments.
