Since tensions between Ukraine and the rebel regions in the east of the country have recently increased significantly, the US authority warns against overflights around Donetsk and Lugansk.

In an instruction to pilots and airlines, each with US licenses, overflights over eastern Ukraine are completely prohibited. The authority expects a military escalation and refers, among other things, to troop movements on Russian territory. As a precautionary measure, US pilots should stay out of this area.

In 2014, Malaysia flight MH17 was shot down by a missile en route from Amsterdam to Kula Lumpur over eastern Ukraine. All inmates were killed. Official investigations have shown that the deadly explosive device was fired by eastern Ukrainian rebels.