Flight Restrictions Over Royal Portrush For Open Championship

Royal Portrush is set to host the 2025 Open Championship later this year, and in preparation, the government has introduced temporary flight restrictions over the area.

The regulation made on the 20th February, officially titled the Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Royal Portrush, Northern Ireland) Regulations 2025, aims to ensure public safety during the tournament.

What Are the Restrictions?

Starting at 04:30 on 13th July and continuing until 21:00 on 21st July 2025, no aircraft will be allowed to fly below 1,400 feet above sea level within a circular zone centred at the coordinates 551213N 0063741W.

This area, with a radius of 0.85 nautical miles, has been designated to minimise the risk posed by low-flying aircraft during the event. The regulation uses Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) for timing, which is one hour behind British Summer Time.

Who Is Affected?

The restrictions apply to most aircraft operating in the area. However, there are important exceptions for:

• Aircraft operating with permission from the Police Service of Northern Ireland Airspace Co-ordinator.
• Flights conducted by police air support units, emergency medical services, or the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

These exceptions ensure that essential services continue uninterrupted.

To view the statutory instrument, navigate here.