Ефекти от геополитическите кризи върху управлението на въздушното пространство: предизвикателства и адаптации
Effects of the Geopolitical Crisis on Airspace Management: Challenges and Adaptations

Author(s): Ivan Yordanov
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Geopolitics, Transport / Logistics
Published by: Университет за национално и световно стопанство (УНСС)
Keywords: Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS); SESAR; air traffic management; trajectory based operations; dynamic airspace management
Summary/Abstract: This study examines how airspace management throughout Europe and the interconnected transcontinental aviation corridors are affected by the current geopolitical crisis. Particular attention is given to the closure of Ukrainian and parts of the Black Sea airspace, alongside the restrictions on Russian airspace for carriers from Europe, North America, and Asia. These disruptions affect not only the economic efficiency of air transport but also the resilience and strategic configuration of the global aviation network. The rerouting of air traffic has led to a greater carbon footprint, longer flight durations, and consistently higher fuel costs. Second, the concentration of significant traffic volumes within constrained air corridors has resulted in increased pressures on air traffic management. Innovative capacity-management techniques, improved interoperability between air traffic control centers, and more adaptable real-time coordination processes are all required in this scenario. Thirdly, geopolitical dynamics have reshaped the conceptualization of airspace security and resilience. Airlines and institutions are compelled to balance economic rationality against geopolitical risks, underscoring the growing significance of aviation as a strategic instrument in the context of international relations. By applying an analytical framework that combines empirical evidence with conceptual insights, the paper concludes that airspace management under conditions of geopolitical crisis must transcend purely technical and economic dimensions. It requires a strategic vision, an integrated policy approach, and a commitment to long-term resilience and sustainability.

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