Operations at Munich Airport were temporarily suspended late Thursday evening following multiple drone sightings, impacting thousands of passengers.
The German air traffic control authority, Deutsche Flugsicherung (DFS), initially restricted flight operations from 10:18 PM local time before implementing a complete shutdown. Airport officials confirmed that 17 flights were unable to depart, affecting approximately 3,000 passengers.
To assist stranded travelers, temporary beds, blankets, drinks and snacks were provided within the airport terminals. In addition, 15 incoming flights were diverted to alternative airports including Stuttgart, Nuremberg, Vienna and Frankfurt.
Authorities placed the safety of passengers as their top priority in response to the drone activity. The identity of those responsible for operating the drones remains unknown and neither the devices nor their operators have been located. Investigations are currently underway.