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Local sources from Latvia: POLITICO Europe, bnn-news.com.
UK coverage: POLITICO Europe.

Estonia has accused Russia of being responsible for GPS interference that has forced Finnair to suspend flights in Tartu. The Estonian Foreign Minister, Margus Tsahkna, called the interference a ‘hybrid attack’ and intends to raise the issue with the EU and NATO. GPS jamming has been occurring in the Baltic region since the start of the war in Ukraine, with Russia being the suspected culprit. While planes can still fly safely without GPS, the jamming deprives pilots of an important geolocation source.

According to a report from POLITICO Europe, Finnair announced the suspension of flights to Tartu until alternative solutions are established. The suspension, which began on April 29, will last until May 31. Tartu airport relies solely on GPS for landings and take-offs, and Finnair is the only airline operating international flights to Tartu.

Estonian Foreign Minister, Margus Tsahkna, condemned the GPS interference as a deliberate act by Russia that disrupts lives and puts people’s lives at risk. Tsahkna plans to discuss the issue with representatives from the European Union and NATO. He emphasized that Russia is well aware of the dangers its interference poses to air traffic.

The bnn-news.com article further highlights that two Finnair flights had to turn back last week due to GPS interference. The disruptions in the Baltic region have been ongoing since the war in Ukraine began in 2022, and although Russia is considered the most likely suspect, its responsibility has not been proven. Finnair pilots have reported interference near Kaliningrad, the Black Sea, the Caspian Sea, and the eastern Mediterranean.

While aircraft can still fly safely without a GPS signal, the interference deprives pilots of an important geolocation source. Finnair expressed its apologies for the inconvenience caused to customers and emphasized that flight safety remains their priority. Estonia’s accusation against Russia for the GPS interference is a significant development that will likely be addressed by the EU and NATO.

As this story unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor the response from Russia, as well as any potential actions taken by the EU and NATO to address the issue and ensure the safety of air traffic in the Baltic region.