Post by : Rameen Ariff

Air travel across parts of Europe has been disrupted due to unidentified drones, with Munich Airport in Germany closing operations for the second night in a row. The airport had to cancel flights late on Friday following drone sightings, after more than 30 flights were grounded the previous day, leaving nearly 3,000 passengers stranded.

Airports in Denmark, Norway, and Poland have also temporarily suspended flights due to drone activity. Meanwhile, Romania and Estonia have accused Russia of being behind the incidents, though Moscow has denied any involvement.

At Munich Airport, drones were first spotted near the perimeter on Thursday evening and later over the airport complex, including areas close to the military airfield in Erding. Police helicopters were deployed, but authorities could not confirm the type or number of drones. Both runways were closed for several hours, and passengers were provided with beds, blankets, drinks, and snacks. Operations resumed early Friday morning, though some evening flights remained delayed, canceled, or diverted.

German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt described the initial incident as a “wake-up call” regarding the growing drone threat, emphasizing the need for more funding and research at both national and European levels. Bavarian Premier Markus Soeder suggested that authorities and police should have the ability to shoot down drones immediately if necessary.

The drone activity comes amid heightened tensions in Europe, as fears grow that Russia’s assault on Ukraine could spill over into neighboring countries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that the drone incursions signal Moscow’s intent to escalate aggression. Denmark has also raised security concerns, with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stating that Russia poses a threat to Europe’s safety.

To counter the threat, the EU discussed setting up a “drone wall” to protect key locations. Sweden has provided anti-drone technology, and the United States is sending additional defense systems to Denmark. NATO has also increased vigilance in the Baltic region following the airspace intrusions. The incidents coincide with Germany’s Unity Day celebrations and the Oktoberfest finale, events attracting large crowds, raising concerns about public safety.

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