A security alert has been raised at Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany after authorities found a drone carrying an explosive device near the runway and launched an investigation into the incident.
The drone was discovered overnight by an airport employee near parked Ukrainian cargo aircraft, prompting police to deploy an explosives-disposal robot. Officers removed the detonator from the device and later carried out a controlled explosion.
The discovery forced the temporary closure of the airport’s north runway for about two hours, leading to flight diversions before normal operations resumed. Authorities said there was no danger to passengers or airport workers.
In a separate incident, another unidentified flying object collided with a cargo aircraft after the closure disrupted its landing. The aircraft was later diverted to Hannover, where minor damage was detected during inspection.
The investigation is being led by prosecutors in Saxony handling politically motivated and extremist-related cases, though officials have not identified any suspects or linked the incident to any group.
The incident adds to growing concerns in Germany over unauthorised drone activity around sensitive locations, including military bases, airports and logistics facilities.
Leipzig/Halle Airport, a key hub for DHL and a facility used by Germany’s military, NATO partners and Ukraine’s Antonov Airlines, remains at the centre of the investigation as authorities work to determine the origin and purpose of the drone.
