Algeria, Morocco: Algiers closes country's airspace to kingdom's civil and military aircraft Sept. 22 amid heightened tensions

Event

Algerian authorities closed the country's airspace to all Moroccan civil and military aircraft Sept. 22. The move comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries in recent months.

Flights on Moroccan-registered aircraft to Algeria will almost certainly be suspended over at least the short term; however, flight disruptions between the two countries may extend for months. Diplomatic tensions between Algeria and Morocco may escalate over the medium term, leading to further cross-border transport disruptions or increased security measures along the shared border.

Context

Algeria notably severed diplomatic relations with Morocco Aug. 24 after Algiers accused purported terrorist groups, including one allegedly backed by Rabat, of starting wildfires in Kabylie Region which killed at least 90 people. Disagreement over the status of Western Sahara, mutual accusations of supporting militant groups, and border disputes have frayed relations between Algeria and Morocco for decades.

Advice

Prepare for consequent flight disruptions; confirm potentially affected flights before traveling to the airport. Maintain contact with your airline and diplomatic representation. Adhere to local authorities' instructions.