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Drone Sightings Surge at German Airports, Disrupting Flights

Drone incidents at German airports are on the rise, causing chaos for passengers. The government is stepping in with new plans to combat the issue.

,   and  Administrator
2 min read
In the center of the picture there is a helicopter flying. In the background there are trees,...
In the center of the picture there is a helicopter flying. In the background there are trees, fencing and buildings. Sky is clear.

Drone Sightings Surge at German Airports, Disrupting Flights

Drone sightings at airports have surged, leading to disruptions and cancellations. The German government is planning reforms and a new centre to tackle the issue, while airports demand state-funded protection systems. Munich Airport has been affected twice in recent days.

In the first eight months of this year, 144 drone incidents were recorded at German airports, up from 113 in the same period last year. These sightings have led to significant disruptions, with 23 incoming flights diverted, 12 canceled, and 46 planned departures unable to take off, affecting over 6,500 passengers.

Munich Airport has been a recent hotspot, with operations suspended for a second night due to drone sightings. Stranded passengers have been provided with essentials like cots, blankets, drinks, and snacks.

Politicians are taking action. The government plans to reform the Air Security Act and the Federal Police Act, and establish a German drone competence center. This center will coordinate federal, state, and military efforts, employing a 'detect, defend, intercept' strategy. This includes electronic countermeasures like jamming and drone control takeover, and as a last resort, the use of force. The airport association demands state-funded, legally secured systems for drone detection and defense.

Air transport experts are calling for mandatory drone labeling to distinguish legal from illegal ones. Bavaria's Interior Minister wants the state police to be allowed to shoot down drones in case of doubt. A meeting of Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt with European colleagues is planned, with discussions on involving the Bundeswehr in combating drones.

Drone sightings at airports pose a serious threat to safety and operations. The German government is addressing this issue with planned reforms and a new competence center. Airports demand state-funded protection systems, and experts call for mandatory drone labeling. The situation will be discussed at an upcoming meeting involving European ministers and the possibility of Bundeswehr involvement.

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