All flights to and from Denmark’s largest airport have been suspended after drone sightings since 20:30 local time.
Between two to three large drones were seen flying in the area around Copenhagen Airport, according to Danish authorities, prompting an immediate and complete shutdown of one of Northern Europe’s busiest aviation hubs.
Take-offs and landings at Copenhagen Airport have been suspended since around 20:30 local time (19:30 BST), with police confirming the severity of the security incident. The closure affects all aircraft movements at Denmark’s primary international gateway.
“The airport is currently closed for take-off and landing, as 2-3 large drones have been seen flying in the area. The time horizon is currently unknown,” police said in a statement on X, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding when normal operations might resume.
Aviation Security Implications
The presence of multiple large drones in airport airspace represents one of the most serious security threats to aviation operations. Drones pose significant risks to aircraft, particularly during takeoff and landing phases when planes are at low altitude and have limited maneuvering capability.
The Copenhagen incident reflects a growing global pattern of drone-related airport disruptions. Similar incidents have occurred at major airports worldwide, including London Gatwick’s 36-hour closure in 2018 and various disruptions at other European airports.
Aviation authorities have struggled to develop effective countermeasures against drone threats, as traditional airport security systems are not designed to detect and neutralize small, low-flying aircraft operating in controlled airspace.
Operational Impact
Copenhagen Airport serves as a major hub for Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and handles millions of passengers annually. The complete closure during evening hours affects numerous flights across Europe and beyond, creating significant disruption for travelers and airlines.
Recovery Timeline Uncertain
With police unable to provide a timeline for reopening, passengers and airlines face an extended period of uncertainty. The airport closure will continue until authorities can confirm the drone threat has been eliminated and normal safety protocols can be restored.
Eurocontrol says Arrivals and departures are regulated with zero rate until 2300 UTC due to drone activity in the vicinity of the airport.
