Flying Restrictions Over Scotland for POTUS Visit: What You Need to Know

In preparation for the upcoming visit of the President of the United States to Scotland, the UK Government has issued a set of temporary airspace restrictions to ensure security and safety. These regulations, enacted by the Secretary of State for Transport, will be in effect from the 24th to the 29th of July, 2025.

Key Details:

1. Airspace Restrictions: The restrictions apply to specific areas over Scotland, where flying will be prohibited below certain altitudes:

   • From 7:00 AM on July 24th to 2:30 PM on July 28th, flights cannot operate below 5,500 feet within a specified 5-nautical-mile radius.
   • Additional restrictions apply on July 25th and 28th, and from July 28th to 29th, affecting various airspace boundaries.

2. Exemptions: Certain flights are exempt:

   • Aircraft approaching or departing from specific airports (e.g., Glasgow Prestwick, RAF Lossiemouth, Aberdeen International) under air traffic control and authorized by the Police Scotland Aviation Safety and Security Unit.
   • Police Air Support, Emergency Medical Services responding to emergencies, and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency during emergencies.
   • Aircraft operated on behalf of the President of the United States or those with special permission granted by Police Scotland.

3. Time Zone: Note that all times are in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), which is one hour behind British Summer Time (BST).

4. Security Measures: The restrictions are part of broader security arrangements to protect the President and ensure public safety during the visit.

5. Further Information: Details will be disseminated through Aeronautical Information Service Briefing Sheets and Notices to Aviation (NOTAM). For queries, contact Alan Frew, Airspace Regulator at the Civil Aviation Authority, at 03301 382734.

These measures underline the importance of security and safety during high-profile international visits, ensuring minimal disruption while maintaining necessary precautions. If you're flying or operating in Scottish airspace during this period, make sure to check the specific timings and areas affected.