German authorities are investigating after discovering a drone carrying an explosive device at Leipzig/Halle airport. An airport worker spotted the unmanned aircraft near the runway, prompting police to deploy specialized equipment to examine the object. Officers successfully removed the detonator from the device, though details about its composition remain undisclosed.
The discovery forced airport officials to close the north runway for approximately two hours on Wednesday. Several flights, including at least one passenger aircraft, were redirected to alternative airports after the object was reported near the facility shortly before midnight. The south runway was already unavailable due to routine maintenance work.
A second flying object also struck a cargo plane that was aborting its landing due to the runway closure. The freight aircraft diverted to Hannover airport, where inspection revealed minor damage. Officials have not confirmed whether this second incident is connected to the drone incident.
Prosecutors in Saxony are leading the investigation, with authorities emphasizing responsibility for cases involving politically motivated and extremist activities. However, no suspects have been identified and no group has claimed responsibility. Airport officials confirmed that operations returned to normal on Wednesday with no threat to passengers or staff.
Originally reported by Aljazeera →
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