WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao’s Parliament has raised alarms over the risks posed by so-called “dark aircraft” operating in or near the island’s airspace.
In a motion adopted on December 15, legislators warned that aircraft deliberately avoiding civilian monitoring systems present serious dangers to air traffic safety and public order. The concern extends to border protection and national security, particularly in a region already facing heightened geopolitical tensions.
The motion highlights that civil air traffic control is not equipped to independently detect and track non-cooperative aircraft without additional resources or military coordination.
Parliament emphasized that Curaçao’s government bears primary responsibility for airspace safety, in close cooperation with relevant civilian institutions. At the same time, lawmakers pointed out that international aviation rules, including ICAO Annex 2, allow military aircraft to operate only when they are within controlled airspace and under clear rules.
The adopted motion reflects growing concern within Parliament about the potential consequences of military activity conducted without sufficient coordination or transparency.