Flight operations at Munich Airport have resumed “progressively” after a second shutdown in as many days caused by suspected drone sightings, disrupting travel plans for more than 6,500 passengers. Airport authorities warned that delays and cancellations would continue throughout the day as services gradually returned to normal.
The airport, Germany’s second busiest, confirmed that operations were halted as a precautionary measure following reports of unidentified drones in the vicinity of its runways. “German air traffic control restricted flight operations at Munich Airport due to unconfirmed drone sightings and suspended them until further notice,” a statement on the airport’s website said.
After several hours of suspension, flights began resuming roughly two hours later than initially scheduled. The disruption led to 23 flight diversions, 12 cancellations, and 48 departures being postponed, according to the latest airport update.
“As on the previous night, the airport and airlines took care of the passengers,” the statement added, noting that camp beds, blankets, drinks, and snacks were provided to stranded travellers.
Thursday night’s closure, triggered by similar reports of drone activity, had already disrupted dozens of flights. A captain on a London-bound aircraft told passengers that runways were shut “because of drone sightings near the take-off and landing areas” and that police helicopters were deployed to investigate.
Drone-related incidents have increasingly affected European airports in recent weeks. Airports in Denmark, Norway, and Poland have also temporarily suspended flights after unidentified drones were spotted near restricted airspace.
Some European authorities have suggested possible links to Russian interference, though the Kremlin has denied any involvement. German officials have not attributed the latest sightings in Munich to any specific actor.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said the government plans to accelerate legislation that would make it easier for police to request military assistance to shoot down drones that threaten air traffic. “We cannot allow Germany’s critical infrastructure and public safety to be repeatedly disrupted in this way,” Dobrindt said in a statement on Friday.
The repeated closures have raised questions about drone surveillance and airport security, as well as the potential impact on European air travel ahead of the busy autumn travel season. Munich Airport authorities continue to urge passengers to check flight statuses with their airlines and remain patient as operations stabilise.
