Travel chaos erupted at Munich Airport on Wednesday as unauthorised drone activity brought Europe's second-busiest airport to a virtual standstill. The disruption coincided with the arrival of a high-level NATO defence delegation, raising serious security concerns.
All flight operations were suspended for approximately 90 minutes during the morning peak period, affecting thousands of passengers and creating ripple effects across Germany's air transport network. Airport authorities took the drastic measure after multiple drone sightings in restricted airspace around the facility.
Security Alert During Critical NATO Meeting
The timing proved particularly sensitive as the airport was preparing to welcome defence officials from NATO member states. Security protocols were immediately escalated, with German federal police launching a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
"The safety of passengers and aircraft remains our absolute priority," a Munich Airport spokesperson stated. "Any unauthorized drone activity near airport premises represents a significant security risk that we cannot tolerate."
Passenger Nightmare Unfolds
Terminals quickly descended into chaos as departing flights were grounded and arriving aircraft were diverted to alternative airports. Frustrated travellers took to social media to share images of crowded departure halls and lengthy queues forming at information desks.
One stranded passenger reported: "We were literally moments from boarding when everything stopped. No clear information, just endless waiting. The airport has become a temporary holding pen for thousands of confused people."
Germany's Growing Drone Problem
This incident marks the latest in a series of drone-related disruptions affecting German airports. Aviation experts warn that such events are becoming increasingly common, posing substantial challenges to airport security systems nationwide.
German authorities have been grappling with how to effectively detect and neutralise rogue drones near critical infrastructure. Current legislation prohibits drone flights within 1.5 kilometres of airport boundaries, but enforcement remains challenging.
The investigation continues as authorities work to identify the operator of the unauthorised drone and determine whether the timing with the NATO delegation arrival was merely coincidental.
