In 2025, several new requirements for the use of airspace for unmanned aircraft and manned aviation flights were initiated and implemented in the eastern part of the Republic of Latvia, within RIGA FIS SECTOR3. The changes were developed in cooperation with experts from several sectors, including the State Agency “Civil Aviation Agency” (CAA), the National Armed Forces (NAF), the State Border Guard (SBG), as well as the Ministries of Defence and Transport.
As of 10 July this year, within RIGA FIS SECTOR3, an air defense identification zone EVZ1 ADIZ EAST came into effect from ground level up to 3,000 feet (914 meters). In this zone, civil manned aviation is required to use the SafeSky mobile application, and pilots must be reachable by mobile phone to receive information in case of emergency.
As of 4 September, within RIGA FIS SECTOR3, from 3,000 feet up to flight level 95, a mandatory radio and transponder use zone will be in effect for general aviation: EVRMZ1/EVTMZ1 RIGA FIS SECTOR3.
For unmanned aircraft flights, the existing rules approved on 2 April remain in force. Specifically, for unmanned aircraft operations below 120 meters, a mandatory notification zone UAS RIGA FIS SECTOR3 N 0-120m applies, where the unmanned aircraft pilot must submit a flight notification at least five minutes in advance using the unified CAA Unmanned Aircraft Information System (BGKIS).
The implementation of these new requirements is expected to improve the identification of flights in the eastern part of the Republic of Latvia and enhance safety.
Each requirement includes certain exemptions, which can be reviewed in detail in the respective regulatory publications.
The CAA reminds remote pilots that, before performing a flight, they must verify whether there are airspace restrictions in the intended location. Information on established airspace restrictions is continuously available on the State Joint Stock Company “Latvijas Gaisa Satiksme” website ais.lgs.lv, as well as in the BGKIS system.
Additional information:
Aivis Vincevs
State Agency “Civil Aviation Agency”
Head of Operational Situations
Tel.: +371 60001672
E-mail: aivis.vincevs@caa.gov.lv