The European Union (EU) has taken a new step against airlines that fail to meet aviation safety standards. As of 3 June 2025, the EU has added all airlines operating in Tanzania and Suriname to its blacklist due to safety concerns. With this decision, the number of airlines listed on the “EU Air Safety List” has risen to 169.
Safety Concerns in Focus: Tanzania and Suriname Banned from European Airspace
In a statement by the European Commission, it was highlighted that the civil aviation authorities of Tanzania and Suriname do not meet international safety standards. According to expert assessments, issues such as a lack of qualified personnel, weak oversight processes, and operational safety deficiencies pose significant risks in both countries. These structural shortcomings have prompted the EU to act in line with its passenger safety-first policy.
16 Countries Now Banned from European Airspace
The EU’s blacklist is not limited to Tanzania and Suriname. Dozens of carriers from countries such as Afghanistan, Angola (with the exception of two airlines), Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are also included. As a result, the number of countries whose airlines are banned from operating in EU airspace has reached 16.
22 Russian Airlines on the List: Sanctions Tied to Ukraine Invasion
Russia is another notable entry on the blacklist. Following the invasion of Ukraine, 22 Russian airlines that continue to use Western-manufactured aircraft without proper authorisation have also been blacklisted. The lack of valid international airworthiness certifications for these aircraft has led the EU to classify them as “unsafe.”
Airlines with Limited Access: The Case of Iran Air and Air Koryo
Some airlines are not entirely banned but are allowed limited access. Carriers such as Iran Air and North Korea’s Air Koryo may only enter European airspace with specific aircraft types. The EU list distinguishes between fully banned airlines and those permitted to operate under certain restrictions.
How Is the Blacklist Compiled?
The “EU Air Safety List” is compiled under the leadership of the European Commission, with input from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and aviation safety experts from member states. Reports from international bodies such as ICAO, FAA, SAFA, and TCO are also taken into account.
Airlines seeking removal from the list must submit technical documentation to prove compliance with safety standards. If these are deemed satisfactory, a new review process is initiated to reassess the airline’s status.
