Munich Airport Halts Operations Again Due to Drone Sightings

Munich Airport experienced a second consecutive day of operational disruptions on October 3, 2023, due to drone sightings. The situation affected dozens of flights and left more than 6,500 passengers stranded. The airport announced that from 21:30 local time, air traffic was restricted and subsequently canceled due to confirmed drone activity in the vicinity.

According to the airport’s statement, 23 incoming flights were diverted, while 12 flights bound for Munich were canceled. Additionally, 46 departures faced cancellations or delays, impacting thousands of travelers. A police spokesperson confirmed that two simultaneous drone sightings occurred shortly before 23:00, around the north and south runways.

The incident prompted immediate action from airport authorities, who provided supplies for affected passengers, including camp beds, blankets, drinks, and snacks. The airport anticipates normal operations to resume by 05:00 on Saturday.

The disruptions began the previous evening, with over 30 flights canceled and nearly 3,000 passengers affected. Initial sightings were reported at 20:30 local time on Thursday, with drones spotted near nearby towns such as Freising and Erding. The Erding area is home to an airfield utilized by the German military, raising concerns about security.

Police helicopters were deployed to investigate the situation, but authorities could not ascertain the type or number of drones involved. The sightings ceased around midnight, leading to the closure of both runways.

Government Response and Security Concerns

In response to the incidents, German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt labeled the initial disruption a “wake-up call” regarding the threats posed by drones. He emphasized the need for increased financing and research to address these challenges effectively. Dobrindt noted that the balance between the threat from drones and defensive measures is becoming increasingly difficult.

The timing of these disruptions coincided with German Unity Day, a national holiday, and the final weekend of Oktoberfest, which attracts large crowds to Munich. The city had already faced a bomb scare earlier in the week, causing temporary closures of the festival.

Bavarian state premier Markus Soeder echoed the call for more decisive action, advocating for legislation that would empower military and police forces to shoot down drones when necessary.

Broader Implications and International Tensions

These drone sightings in Germany are part of a wider pattern, with airports in Denmark, Norway, and Poland also suspending flights due to unidentified drones. Romania and Estonia have alleged Russian involvement, a claim that Moscow has firmly denied. The situation underscores the heightened fears of potential spillover effects from Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that recent drone incursions signify an escalation of Russian aggression, while German authorities remain on high alert. Reports indicate that drones have flown over military and industrial sites in Germany in recent weeks.

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reaffirmed that only one country poses a threat to European security—Russia. Moscow, in turn, has accused Europe of creating “hysteria” to justify increased military spending.

As this situation unfolds, it highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address drone threats and enhance security measures across Europe.