Early Thursday morning, local police reported that Aalborg Airport in Denmark was closed after drones were spotted in its airspace. This comes just two days after Copenhagen Airport, the country’s main air hub, was also shut down due to drone sightings that have unsettled European aviation.
According to Danish national police, the drones over Aalborg followed a pattern similar to those that halted flights in Copenhagen for several hours earlier in the week. They added that the incident also affected the armed forces, since Aalborg Airport is used as a military base.
On Tuesday, Denmark described the Copenhagen airport incident as the most serious attack to date on its critical infrastructure and connected it to a series of suspected Russian drone incursions and other disruptions across Europe.
In a related incident, Norwegian authorities closed the airspace around Oslo Airport for about three hours on Monday evening after a drone was observed.
Police in Northern Jutland told reporters that more than one drone had been seen near Aalborg Airport and that they were flying with their lights on. The drones were first spotted around 9:44 p.m. local time on Wednesday and were still in the airspace as of a police briefing at 12:05 a.m. Thursday.
Officials said they could not yet identify the type of drones or confirm whether they were the same as those seen over Copenhagen on Monday. A police representative stated, “It is too early to say what the goal of the drones is or who is behind them.”
Norwegian and Danish authorities are cooperating closely regarding the incidents in Oslo and Copenhagen, but Norway’s foreign minister said Wednesday that no link has been established so far.
Eurocontrol, which manages European air traffic, announced that arrivals and departures at Aalborg would remain suspended until 4:00 a.m. GMT Thursday due to drone activity in the area.
Police are continuing their investigation on-site and have assured the public that there is no danger to passengers or local residents. Three flights have been diverted to other airports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about the recent drone sightings at Scandinavian airports designed to sound natural and provide clear direct answers
FAQs Drone Sightings at Scandinavian Airports
BeginnerLevel Questions
1 What happened at the Danish airport
A drone was spotted flying near the airport which led officials to temporarily close the airspace and halt all flights for safety reasons
2 Why is a drone so dangerous near an airport
A drone can be sucked into a jet engine or crash into an aircrafts windshield causing severe damage or a crash Its a major safety risk
3 Is this the first time this has happened
No this incident happened just two days after similar drone sightings caused disruptions at the airports in Copenhagen Denmark and Oslo Norway
4 How long was the airport closed
The closure is typically temporary lasting until authorities can confirm the drone is gone and the airspace is safe The exact duration varies
5 Who is flying these drones near airports
Its currently unknown Authorities are investigating but it could be anything from an irresponsible hobbyist to a deliberate malicious act
Advanced Practical Questions
6 What are the rules for flying drones near airports
It is almost always illegal to fly drones anywhere near an airport without special permission There are strict nofly zones extending for miles around airports
7 What technology can detect or stop rogue drones
Airports are investing in systems like radar radio frequency scanners and even nets or jamming technology to detect and disable unauthorized drones
8 What should I do if I see a drone near an airport
You should immediately report it to the airport or local police Do not try to confront the operator or interfere with the drone yourself
9 What are the legal consequences for flying a drone in a restricted zone
The consequences are severe and can include large fines confiscation of equipment and even criminal charges especially if it endangers aircraft
10 How do these disruptions affect travelers beyond just delays
Beyond delays cancellations can lead to missed connections financial losses for airlines and passengers and increased security costs that can impact ticket prices
11 Could this be a coordinated effort
Given the close timing of the incidents in Copenhagen Oslo and now another Danish airport authorities