In brief
For the second time in 24 hours, Munich airport ceased operations following reports of unconfirmed drone activity in the vicinity. The closure on Friday evening impacted approximately 6,500 travelers, coming just a day after 17 flights were grounded due to similar incidents. As drone disruptions become increasingly frequent across Europe, authorities are calling for enhanced anti-drone defenses.
Germany's Munich airport has halted flights for the second time in 24 hours, after more unconfirmed drone sightings.
In a statement on Friday evening, the airport said that flights were suspended at 21:30 local time (20:30 GMT), affecting around 6,500 passengers.
At least 17 flights were previously grounded on Thursday evening due to multiple drone sightings in nearby airspace.
This event adds to a series of drone-related incidents disrupting aviation across Europe in recent weeks.
Authorities in Belgium were also investigating sightings of 15 drones flying over the Elsenborn military site near the German border. Following their appearance, the drones reportedly flew into German airspace, where they were spotted by local police in the small town of Düren.
Officials have yet to determine the origin or operator of these drones.
Germany's Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt has announced plans to discuss anti-drone measures during a Saturday meeting with European interior ministers that was initially scheduled to focus on migration issues.
Furthermore, the minister proposed fast-tracking legislation to empower police to collaborate with military forces in shooting down drones if necessary.
In response to the increasing number of drone sightings, a recent European leaders' summit in Copenhagen resulted in discussions about establishing a 'drone wall' to effectively detect, track, and eliminate threats from drones, particularly those linked to Russian activities.
As airspace incursions persist, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz noted the deteriorating situation and expressed concerns about drones potentially emanating from Russia. However, Russian officials have denied involvement, and recent statements by President Vladimir Putin aimed to downplay the situation regarding Danish drone allegations.
