Munich Airport Disrupted by Drones: 6,500 Travelers Affected
Munich Airport experienced a significant disruption on Friday night due to drone sightings, impacting around 6,500 travelers. The airport was closed for several hours, with overnight accommodations provided for those stranded. This incident is one of six drone-related disruptions at the airport this month, raising concerns about air traffic safety in Europe.
The Bundespolizei confirmed multiple drone alarms on Friday evening, leading to the temporary closure of Munich Airport. Around 81 flights were impacted, with 12 cancellations and 23 diversions to other airports. Operations resumed gradually from 7:00 AM on Saturday, but passengers can still expect delays throughout the day.
This incident follows a recent trend of drone disruptions at critical infrastructure in Germany. Last week, drones were spotted over critical infrastructure in Schleswig-Holstein, with an ongoing investigation. German air traffic control reported 144 drone incidents by the end of August, compared to 113 last year and 99 in 2023. Similar disruptions have also been reported in Denmark and Norway recently.
The perpetrator and motive behind the drone flights at Munich Airport remain unknown. Authorities are investigating the incident. While operations have resumed, passengers should anticipate potential delays. The recent increase in drone incidents highlights the need for stricter regulations and better detection systems to ensure air traffic safety in Europe.
