After Drone Alarm in Munich: New Rules for Unmanned Aircraft - Drones Cause Chaos at Munich Airport and Oktoberfest, Affecting Thousands
Drones caused chaos at Munich Airport and Oktoberfest, suspending flights and affecting thousands of passengers. The incidents, which occurred over two nights, remain unsolved despite extensive investigations.
On Thursday and Friday evenings, drones were spotted near Munich Airport and the Oktoberfest. This led to the suspension of flight operations, with around 3,000 passengers affected. Some passengers had to spend the night in terminals or hotels.
The sightings caused concern, with Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder suggesting a possible external threat. Police and authorities investigated but could not identify the responsible party or the origin of the drones.
One drone was spotted over the Oktoberfest, operated by a man from Georgia. Another was seen over a German Armed Forces site in Erding. The drones posed a potential hazard, as they can cause greater damage to aircraft than similarly sized birds, especially during takeoff and landing.
The incidents resulted in flight cancellations and diversions. On Thursday evening alone, 17 flights were cancelled, and 15 were diverted to other airports.
In response to the incidents, Federal Minister of the Interior Alexander Dobrindt plans to involve the German Armed Forces in drone defense. Bavaria also aims to expand the powers of the state police to shoot down drones in case of doubt.
The drone incidents at Munich Airport and Oktoberfest highlight the potential hazards and disruptions drones can cause. Authorities are taking steps to address this issue, with plans to involve the military and expand police powers. The origin of the drones and the responsible parties remain unclear, with investigations ongoing.
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