Multiple Drone Sightings Halt Operations
Flights at Munich Airport are slowly resuming after two separate interruptions caused by drones near the runways. The first disruption occurred late Thursday night, forcing controllers to suspend all departures and arrivals. Although the airport briefly reopened on Friday morning, additional drone sightings later that day prompted another suspension, with many flights diverted to surrounding airports including Vienna and Stuttgart.
Passengers Stranded Amid Cancellations
The back-to-back closures left thousands of travelers stranded, with over 6,500 passengers affected during the second incident alone. Many were forced to spend the night in the terminal, where airport personnel provided blankets, food, and temporary sleeping arrangements. Limited flight operations resumed Saturday morning, but airlines warned that disruptions, delays, and cancellations would continue as schedules were adjusted.
Authorities Investigate and Call for Stronger Measures
Officials have yet to determine who was responsible for the drone flights, and the number of drones involved remains unknown. The incidents have sparked renewed debate about the security of major transportation hubs. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt announced plans to fast-track legislation enhancing counter-drone measures, including the possible deployment of military resources to protect airports and other critical infrastructure.
