Munich Airport in Germany reopened on October 3 after a series of drone sightings led to its closure the previous night. The incident forced the cancellation of more than 17 flights, impacting nearly 3,000 passengers and affecting cargo operations. Air traffic authorities also diverted an additional 15 flights to nearby airports due to safety concerns.
Details of the Incident
The drones were first spotted around 21:30 local time on October 2, with another sighting reported approximately an hour later. Federal Police spokesperson Stefan Bayer confirmed that details regarding the type, size, or origins of the drones remain unverified due to the nighttime conditions. A spokesperson from German airline Lufthansa stated that flight operations had resumed according to schedule the following day.
Authorities are also investigating related drone activity outside Germany. Belgian media reported sightings of 15 drones above the Elsenborn military site, located near the German border. This uptick in drone activity comes amid heightened tensions in Europe, with recent reports indicating that 20 Russian drones crossed into Polish airspace, while Russian MiG-31 jets entered Estonian airspace.
Regional Implications and Responses
The surge in drone sightings has prompted a leaders’ summit in Copenhagen scheduled for this week, where European officials will discuss security measures. On October 1, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen cautioned that Europe is currently facing a hybrid war instigated by Russia and emphasized the need for the continent to enhance its defensive capabilities.
The situation at Munich Airport highlights ongoing security challenges in Europe and the need for coordinated responses to emerging threats. As authorities continue to investigate the drone incidents, the implications for air travel and regional security remain significant.