《Singapore Daily News Oct 3》Munich International Airport, one of Germany’s busiest air travel hubs, was forced to suspend operations today after an unauthorized drone entered its restricted airspace. The incident disrupted dozens of flights and caused chaos for thousands of passengers.
Flights Grounded Over Drone Threat
According to German federal police and airport officials, one or more drones were spotted flying near the airport’s runways early Friday morning. As a precaution, authorities halted all takeoffs and landings while security teams scanned the area and attempted to locate the operator.
The source and intent of the drone intrusion remain unknown. The affected airspace was locked down as a part of emergency procedures.
Flight Delays and Terminal Congestion
The unexpected shutdown led to major flight delays, including routes to Berlin, Paris, London, and Madrid. Videos posted on social media show long lines and crowded terminals, with frustrated passengers complaining about the lack of clear communication.
Munich Airport officials activated emergency response plans, providing food, water, and rebooking assistance to stranded travelers.
Authorities Call for Tighter Drone Regulation
The Bavarian state government and Germany’s Ministry of Transport issued a joint statement expressing concern over growing drone-related threats. Officials announced plans to review anti-drone systems and explore stricter drone regulations to prevent future incidents.
Drone disruptions have affected several European airports in recent years, exposing vulnerabilities in current airspace security protocols.
A Growing Global Aviation Security Concern
While drones offer great potential in sectors like logistics and photography, their misuse poses increasing risks to aviation. Experts warn that drone intrusions near airports not only endanger flights but also expose critical gaps in national security.