On October 2, 2025, Munich Airport halted operations after multiple drone sightings, canceling 17 flights and diverting 15 others.
The closure, starting at 9:30 p.m. local time, impacted nearly 3,000 passengers.
Flight Resumption
By October 3, Lufthansa confirmed flights were back on schedule. “Operations have normalized,” a spokesperson said, after the airport reopened earlier than its usual 5 a.m. start.
Incident Details
The drones, spotted twice within an hour, prompted authorities to suspend departures and redirect incoming flights to Stuttgart, Nuremberg, Vienna, and Frankfurt. Darkness obscured details about the drones’ type or origin.
Response Measures
Munich Airport alerted federal police, who are investigating the incident. No information on the drones’ operators or source has been confirmed, reflecting similar mysteries at other European airports recently.
Regional Context
Belgium reported 15 drones near its Elsenborn military site, some crossing into Germany’s Düren area.
This follows a pattern of unexplained drone activity prompting temporary airport closures in Copenhagen and Oslo.
European Concerns
A recent EU leaders’ summit in Copenhagen addressed rising drone incidents, including Russian drones entering Polish airspace and jets breaching Estonia’s.
Russia denies involvement, with President Vladimir Putin dismissing claims of directing drones toward Denmark.
Passenger Impact
Stranded travelers at Munich received camp beds, blankets, snacks, and drinks. The disruption coincided with Oktoberfest, a festival drawing over six million visitors annually, ending October 5.
Festival Strain
Oktoberfest faced additional challenges, having paused briefly on October 1 due to a bomb threat, heightening local security concerns during the busy event.
Broader Implications
Unidentified drones highlight vulnerabilities in European airspace, raising questions about aviation safety and regional coordination to address such threats.
Ongoing Investigation
German authorities continue probing the drones’ origins, with potential links to cross-border incidents under scrutiny. Enhanced monitoring is expected to prevent future disruptions.
Why It Matters
The incident underscores the growing challenge of managing unauthorized drones, especially during major events like Oktoberfest, impacting travel and safety.
What’s Next
In October 2025, Munich Airport and European officials will likely strengthen drone detection and response measures to safeguard air travel.
