German UAV Incidents Contribute to Europe’s Safety Concerns
Munich is now part of a increasing list of EU airports disrupted by unmanned aircraft reports in the last month, involving 17 canceled journeys, 15 diverted elsewhere, and thousands of passengers experiencing disruption to their trips overnight.
Multiple witnesses reported observing drones in the vicinity of the airport, with a further observation subsequently verified in the no-fly area, forcing air traffic control to halt activities during inquiry.
It remains unknown the number of, or which models, unmanned aircraft were involved.
The disruption comes shortly prior to the final days of the Bavarian celebration event, which had previously experienced problems a few days ago due to a reported danger in the metropolis.
The German air navigation service, the German aviation control body responsible for the country’s flight paths, said last week that drone sightings around aviation hubs are rising, with 144 reported so far in 2025, compared with 113 in 2024, and 99 in 2023.
Expect the reports and the related issues to reignite the conversation about Europe’s sky protection, following the EU leaders’ meeting in the Scandinavian city highlighted some disagreements – mostly along regional divisions – about the recently suggested “unmanned aircraft defense” initiative.
It’s October 3, 2025, a Friday, and we bring you Europe Live.
Main Highlights
- The Bavarian aviation hub experienced substantial flight cancellations due to UAV reports.
- Seventeen flights were grounded, and several more were rerouted.
- Many individuals faced travel disruptions last evening.
- The situation occurred right prior to the final days of the famous beer festival.
- Unmanned aircraft reports around German airports have been increasing in the last period.
- The events are expected to reignite discussions on EU aviation security and the suggested “unmanned aircraft defense” plan.
