Trinidad and Tobago gov’t denies airspace has been restricted

The Ministry of Defence in Trinidad and Tobago has moved to clarify what it described as public misinformation circulating on social media regarding the status of the country’s airspace.

In a media release dated January 6, the ministry said false and misleading interpretations of a recent aviation advisory were being shared online, creating unnecessary public concern. The statement specifically referenced the circulation of a partial excerpt from a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM), which officials said had been taken out of context.

According to the ministry, Trinidad and Tobago’s airspace remains fully open and operational. It confirmed that the Piarco Flight Information Region (TTZP), along with all airports across the country, continues to accommodate normal commercial and private aviation traffic without disruption.

The clarification follows the issuance of NOTAM A0010/26, a routine security advisory issued by the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The Ministry of Defence emphasized that the advisory applies exclusively to U.S.-registered aircraft operators and does not represent an assessment of Trinidad and Tobago’s aviation safety or airspace security.

The ministry also noted that such advisories are standard practice among sovereign states and should not be misconstrued as an indication of deteriorating conditions within the country’s aviation environment.

Officials said local aviation and security authorities continue to monitor the Piarco Flight Information Region in line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards to ensure the safety and security of all air traffic.

The Ministry of Defence urged responsible reporting and cautioned against the circulation of incomplete or misleading information, warning that it could cause unnecessary alarm among the public. It added that any material changes to aviation operations would be communicated through official government channels.