After Copenhagen, drones forced Munich airport to close all night long
Late on October 2 evening, air traffic at Munich Airport was disrupted after multiple drone sightings near the runways prompted authorities to restrict, and eventually suspend, flight operations. According to Deutsche Flugsicherung (DFS), the country’s air navigation agency, the first restrictions went into effect at 10:18 p.m. local time.
In total, 17 departing flights were unable to take off, stranding nearly 3,000 passengers overnight. Another 15 incoming flights were diverted to nearby airports, including Stuttgart, Nuremberg, Vienna, and Frankfurt.
Airport officials, in coordination with airlines, moved quickly to provide assistance. Hundreds of field beds were set up in the terminals, and stranded travelers were supplied with blankets, water, and snacks. Airport staff and police were present throughout the night to manage the situation and reassure passengers.
Authorities stressed that passenger safety remains the top priority whenever drones are spotted near an active airport. Established communication chains between DFS, airport management, and police agencies were immediately activated. German law places the detection, investigation, and neutralization of drones strictly under the jurisdiction of federal and state police, as the use of unauthorized drones in controlled airspace is considered a serious security threat.
Europe sees a multiplication of drones incidents
Drone incursions at airports have become a growing concern across Europe in recent years. Similar incidents causing temporary closures at major hubs such as Dublin, Frankfurt, or London Gatwick. Drones deemed coming from Russia were also seen above Copenhagen and Warsaw airports a few days ago. Drones over Munich airport could have also been originated from Russia in an act of hybrid war with Western Europe. So far, police did not confirmed whether the incident was due to reckless hobbyist use or a deliberate act of disruption.
In Germany, lawmakers and aviation authorities have been pushing for stronger counter-drone technology and stricter penalties for offenders.
Flight operations in Munich had resumed in early morning of October 3. However, some flights have been delayed or cancelled. Online timetable for Munich airport is available under https://www.munich-airport.de/#departures.
TravelMole Editorial Team
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