What happened near Munich Airport
In the evening hours on Thursday, witnesses reported sightings of unmanned aerial vehicles over the Munich metropolitan area, including the vicinity of Munich Airport. The incident prompted an immediate safety response, and the airport suspended operations during the late hours. About one hour after the initial reports, drones were again sighted — this time over the airport grounds themselves. Authorities confirmed the later sightings, though darkness prevented clear identification of the drones or their operators.
Impact on flights and airport operations
The airport’s operator closed both runways around 10:30 p.m., halting all takeoffs and landings. The disruption affected roughly 20 flights, according to the Bundespolizei. To protect the surrounding residents’ sleep, flight activity was restricted from 10 p.m. until midnight, reducing loud operations in the neighborhood. Passengers and airlines faced cancellations and delays as crews adapted to the sudden security precaution and the need to maintain safe separation around any potential drone activity.
Response from authorities
Authorities mobilized both ground units and aerial support. In addition to officers on the tarmac, police helicopters were deployed to locate or track the drones. Despite extensive search efforts, neither the aircraft nor any suspects could be identified by nightfall. The Bundespolizei indicated that, given the darkness, it was not possible to determine drone type or size, or to ascertain who might be responsible for the flights. The investigation continues, with authorities promising updates as more information becomes available.
What this means for Wiesn safety and future flights
The incident occurred during a busy period for Munich. While the airport is normally closed for night-time noise protection after midnight, the events raised new questions about airborne security near major hubs. At the moment, there is no confirmed restart time for Friday morning operations. The airport’s own site did not show active cancellation notices by late evening, but travel plans may still be affected once the schedule resumes and airlines reassess crew and gate allocations following the disruption.
Ongoing investigation and implications
Authorities stressed that safety is the top priority and emphasized that drone activity near airports poses a serious risk to air traffic management. Investigators will be reviewing surveillance footage, air traffic control data, and any available eyewitness statements to identify potential leads. Law enforcement agencies in Germany have stepped up monitoring of drone use, particularly in congested airspaces and during events with large crowds. While no arrests were reported in connection with this event, the investigation will likely influence how drones are regulated near Munich and other major hubs in the near future.
What travelers should know
For those with flights affected, check with your airline for the latest updates and potential rebooking options. If you were scheduled to fly in the late evening or overnight, your itinerary may have shifted, and alternative arrangements could be offered. Keep an eye on official airport alerts and carrier communications for the most current information as authorities work to determine the cause of the drone activity and whether normal operations can resume promptly.
Bottom line: drones over and around Munich Airport led to a temporary shutdown of the airfield, affecting roughly twenty flights and prompting a robust security response. The situation remains under investigation as authorities work toward answers and a safe return to regular service.
