Berlin Airport Briefly Shuts Down Due to Drone Activity
On Friday, flight operations at Berlin Airport were temporarily suspended for approximately two hours due to the presence of unidentified drones in the airspace, according to a spokesperson for the airport. The suspension of air traffic control occurred between 8:08 PM and 9:58 PM local time, leading to the diversion of several flights to other German cities during the closure.
Details of the Incident
The airport spokesperson stated, “We assume the danger has been averted for now.” Police in the state of Brandenburg, where the airport is located, confirmed receiving a report of a drone sighting and subsequently deployed patrol cars and a helicopter to investigate the situation.
This incident reflects a growing concern among German authorities regarding the increasing threat posed by drones. This year, there has been a notable rise in drone sightings near airports and sensitive military sites, prompting warnings from German leaders.
Wider European Context
Berlin isn’t alone in facing these challenges. Recent incidents have led to flight suspensions in Denmark, Norway, and Poland due to unidentified drones and balloons. Germany, along with Romania and Estonia, has pointed fingers at Russia, which has denied any involvement in these events.
Rising Drone Concerns
Germany has reported numerous instances of drone flights over military bases, industrial sites, and other critical infrastructure in recent months. Earlier in October, drones were sighted twice over Munich, resulting in the closure of the city’s airport and the disruption of travel for thousands of passengers.
German Interior Minister, Alexander Dobrindt, has called for new solutions to address this hybrid threat, including enhanced capabilities for detecting, assessing, and potentially intercepting drones.
Source: Annahar
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