New Spaceports in Europe Increase Activity in the Airspace

Andøya Spaceport is under construction on Andøya in Norway. Construction of new spaceports is underway in several countries in Europe, both in Sweden, the United Kingdom and Portugal.

New spaceports in Europe and an increased number of launches into space, will affect the airspace.

All use of Norwegian airspace by spaceflight activities requires permission from CAA Norway prior to launch. All flights and other use of Norwegian airspace require permission according to the Aviation Act.

Even if a launch vehicle is not to pass through Norwegian airspace, but there is a risk for damage within Norwegian airspace and on Norwegian territory, this will require consent from the Norwegian authorities.  

International airspace

Launches outside of Norwegian airspace that affect airspace where Norway is responsible for providing air traffic services on behalf of ICAO must be coordinated with CAA Norway. This applies to airspace over the high seas within Polaris and Bodø Oceanic FIRs.

CAA Norway must be contacted well in advance, according to ICAO Annex 11, so that deadlines applicable to international notifications can be met. Information about the affected area must be described, both for planned and unplanned debris. Coordinates for the danger area must be provided.