Authorities investigate security breach after cargo aircraft struck by unknown object
BERLIN: German authorities temporarily suspended operations at Leipzig-Halle Airport after police discovered an explosives-equipped drone near a Ukrainian cargo aircraft, while a separate cargo plane collided with an unidentified flying object before landing safely, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
The incident prompted the diversion of all inbound flights for several hours shortly before midnight as bomb disposal experts deployed a robotic unit to neutralize the explosive device attached to the unmanned aerial vehicle. Authorities later confirmed that the robot successfully removed the detonator, allowing investigators to secure the area.
Leipzig-Halle Airport plays a strategic role in military and commercial logistics, serving the German armed forces, NATO allies, international cargo carriers and Ukraine’s Antonov Airlines.
Cargo aircraft damaged as investigation expands
Meanwhile, police confirmed that another cargo aircraft struck a suspected unidentified flying object several kilometers from the airport after aborting its landing. The aircraft later landed safely at Hanover Airport, where inspectors discovered minor damage to its nose section.
Investigators have classified the drone’s payload as an improvised explosive and incendiary device. Counter-terrorism officers are examining evidence and searching for those responsible while appealing to the public for information regarding suspicious drone activity near the airport.
Although Ukraine’s ambassador to Germany suggested Russia could be behind the incident, German authorities have not presented evidence linking Moscow to the case. Russia has not commented on the latest developments.
Security concerns grow over repeated drone incidents
Flight operations resumed later on Wednesday using only the airport’s northern runway while investigators continued examining the affected area.
Germany has experienced several security incidents involving unidentified drones near airports, military facilities and industrial sites in recent years. Officials believe many of these flights are intended for surveillance, intimidation or sabotage, though investigations remain ongoing.
The latest incident has renewed concerns over aviation security and the protection of critical infrastructure as authorities continue efforts to identify those responsible and determine the full circumstances surrounding the security breach.
