Unknown Drones Halt Operations at Munich Airport – One of Germany’s Largest

The flights of unknown drones halted operations at the airport in the German city of Munich late on Thursday, October 2nd.

The airport’s press service reported on this.

Due to security restrictions, 17 flights were unable to depart from the airport, affecting nearly 3,000 passengers.

In addition, 15 incoming flights were redirected to Stuttgart, Nuremberg, Vienna, and Frankfurt.

“Federal police reported during the night that several individuals had reported seeing a drone near the airport. Later, there were also reports of drones appearing directly over the airport grounds. It was initially unclear whether it had been a single drone or multiple devices,” writes Der Spiegel.

As a result, the airport’s runways were closed at 10:18 p.m. local time.

Police officers patrolled the surrounding area in search of unmanned aerial vehicles and potential suspects, but to no avail. A police helicopter was also deployed.

Munich airport staff, in cooperation with the airlines, assisted passengers in the waiting areas: foldable beds were set up, and blankets, drinks, and food were provided.

This incident is part of a series of drone-related occurrences at airports across Europe, raising concerns and prompting authorities to strengthen the protection of critical infrastructure.