From January 13 to 20, 2024, the Air Force will increasingly ensure the safety of Austrian airspace on the occasion of the World Economic Forum in Davos (Switzerland). For this purpose, a flight restriction area was created in parts of Vorarlberg and Tyrol. More than 1,000 soldiers and 24 aircraft – twelve fixed-wing aircraft and twelve helicopters – guarantee the safety of the event and protect the local population from aerial dangers. Among other things, patrol flights are carried out for surveillance, flights to identify airspace violations, transport and cross-border operations with Switzerland.
“The long-standing cooperation between our two neutral states in the 'Daedalus' airspace security operation has proved very successful. However, through our joint participation in the 'European Sky Shield Initiative', we now face a new era of further deepening our relations in the area of air defense”, Minister of Defense Tanner emphasizes the special importance of cooperation with Switzerland.
Cross-border cooperation
Flights across national borders are constantly intensified between Austria and Switzerland as part of the further development of cooperation. These chase flights are made possible through the mutual granting of entry permits. The agreement between the Republic of Austria and the Swiss Confederation on cooperation in the area of cross-border airspace security against non-military aerial threats has been in full force since 1 February 2019.
“Cross-Border Operations”
In the event of a violation of airspace close to the border, “Cross-Border Operations” guarantees the complete observation and monitoring of aircraft that do not adhere to international aviation guidelines. This guarantees the observation of aircraft and, above all, the early transfer between the air forces of the two countries. However, the use of weapons in neighboring airspace is not permitted.
Similar cross-border cooperation has existed on the ground for years and allows the police to extend prosecution activities into neighboring national territory. Due to Davos' proximity to the border, Switzerland requested increased surveillance of Austrian airspace in the affected area.
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