The Security Council also discussed the incident involving a second unknown object. The federal public prosecutor's office has taken over the investigation.
Ukrainian
The drone was found near Ukrainian Antonov transport aircraft. Leipzig/Halle is an important cargo hub and is considered critical infrastructure by the authorities. The incident has thus intensified the debate about protecting airports against drones.
The drone was found near the southern runway of Leipzig/Halle. Shortly before, an unknown flying object had been observed in the vicinity of the airport.
Promotion
After the initial sighting, both runways were temporarily closed and several flights were diverted. The northern runway was reopened about two hours later. According to the authorities, there was no danger to passengers or airport personnel.
Second drone
During the disruption, a second incident occurred. A cargo plane that could not land in Leipzig due to the closed runway encountered an unknown object. It possibly collided with a second drone. The cargo plane diverted to Hannover and landed there. Upon inspection, minor damage was found.
Whether the two events are connected has not yet been determined. German authorities have not yet identified an official perpetrator. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt called it a new threat scenario.
Previous incidents too
The events are being investigated as a possible hybrid attack scenario, but a political motive has not yet been established. Leipzig/Halle has experienced security issues before. In 2024, an incendiary device ignited in a logistics center at the airport. Drone sightings have also previously led to temporary interruptions of air traffic.