Munich Airport was forced to halt operations on Friday morning after multiple drone sightings near the runways, causing dozens of flight cancellations and delays. The disruption is the latest in a series of incidents involving unauthorised drones that have raised concerns about aviation safety across Europe.
Flights grounded as precaution
Airport authorities confirmed that take-offs and landings were temporarily suspended after pilots and staff reported drone activity in restricted airspace. At least 60 flights were cancelled, while others were diverted to nearby airports, leaving passengers stranded. Officials said operations resumed after security checks, but warned that even short suspensions have a significant knock-on effect on schedules.
Rising European trend
The incident in Munich follows a growing number of drone-related disruptions at major European hubs. Airports in London, Paris, and Frankfurt have all experienced temporary closures in recent years due to unauthorised drone activity. Regulators and airlines have expressed frustration over the recurring threat, which continues despite tighter restrictions and increased surveillance measures.
Concerns over safety and security
Experts warn that drones near airports pose a serious risk to aircraft, particularly during take-off and landing. A collision could cause severe damage, raising urgent questions about enforcement and technology to detect and disable drones. German aviation authorities have said they are reviewing the incident and considering stronger penalties for illegal drone flights.
Impact on travellers and airlines
Passengers at Munich Airport reported long queues and confusion, with many missing connecting flights. Airlines are likely to face compensation claims under EU passenger rights legislation, adding financial pressure to an industry already grappling with high fuel costs and geopolitical uncertainty. The disruption also comes during a busy autumn travel season, increasing strain on carriers and airports.
Looking ahead
European airports are investing in drone detection systems, but experts argue that more cross-border coordination is needed to address the problem. For Munich, the incident highlights how even advanced hubs remain vulnerable to small, inexpensive devices capable of paralysing air traffic. Authorities stressed that public safety remained their top priority, but travellers face the reality that drone disruptions are becoming an increasingly common challenge for Europe’s aviation sector.
Newshub Editorial in Europe – 3 October 2025
Recent Comments