Why in news?
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) reserving airspace along the India–Pakistan border for the tri‑services exercise Ex Trishul, scheduled from 30 October to 10 November 2025. The notification informs pilots and airlines about temporary restrictions so that military aircraft can conduct training safely.
Background
A NOTAM (also known as a Notice to Air Mission) is an official message issued by a national aviation authority that provides information on the establishment, condition or change in any aeronautical facility, service, procedure or hazard. Its purpose is to alert pilots and other flight personnel to potential dangers along their route. NOTAMs are coded messages transmitted through the fastest available means and are essential for safe flight planning.
When are NOTAMs issued?
- Airspace restrictions: During air‑shows, parachute jumps, glider operations, military exercises or visits by heads of state, portions of airspace may be reserved or closed.
- Airport conditions: NOTAMs warn of closed runways, unserviceable taxiways, maintenance on navigational aids and temporary obstructions on the ground.
- Infrastructure changes: They announce the activation or deactivation of radio beacons, changes to approach procedures, or installation of new equipment.
- Hazard advisories: Information on volcanic ash clouds, rocket launches or birds in flight paths may be circulated to avert accidents.
About Exercise Trishul
- Joint training: Ex Trishul is a large‑scale exercise involving the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. It aims to test joint planning and execution across land, sea and air domains.
- Integrated operations: The exercise features amphibious landings, airborne assaults, intelligence‑surveillance‑reconnaissance (ISR) missions, electronic warfare and cyber operations to practise multi‑domain coordination.
- Self‑reliance and innovation: The drills showcase indigenously developed equipment and demonstrate the Armed Forces’ ability to operate effectively without dependence on foreign systems.
- Strategic signalling: Conducting Ex Trishul along the western border sends a message of preparedness and cohesion to potential adversaries.
Significance
- Flight safety: NOTAMs ensure that civilian pilots are aware of military activities and avoid restricted airspace, preventing mid‑air conflicts.
- Operational efficiency: Accurate information enables airlines to plan alternate routes and minimise delays caused by temporary closures.
- National security: Reserving airspace allows the Armed Forces to train realistically and build joint capability without endangering civil aviation.
Conclusion
NOTAMs play a vital role in aviation by disseminating timely safety information. As India undertakes ambitious joint exercises like Ex Trishul, coordination between military and civilian authorities ensures that training needs are balanced with the safety and convenience of civil aviation.
Source: Moneycontrol