Breakaway regime in northern Cyprus issues NOTAM in response to Republic of Cyprus notice

On March 17 and 18, 2026, the Turkish Cypriot authorities issued a counter-NOTAM in response to the Republic of Cyprus's NOTAM A0345/26. The Republic of Cyprus had originally issued the notice to warn of potential military activities in a large sea area located south and east of the island. The Turkish Cypriot transport ministry characterized the Republic of Cyprus's notice as invalid, claiming authority over the airspace. They further alleged that the area in question falls under the jurisdiction of the Ercan control zone. The international community does not recognize the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus as an authority for flight information or air traffic services within the Nicosia FIR. The dispute highlights the ongoing conflict regarding aviation control and territorial claims in the region.