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Brussels and Liege Airports Experience Repeated shutdowns Due to Drone Sightings
Brussels and Liege, Belgium – Major air travel disruptions unfolded on Tuesday as both Brussels Airport and Liege Airport were forced into multiple temporary closures following confirmed sightings of unauthorized drones. Teh incidents prompted swift action from authorities and raised significant security questions.
initial Disruptions and Resumption of Flights
The first drone sighting near brussels Airport occurred at 8:00 PM local time (19:00 GMT). This was quickly followed by a similar event at liege Airport, a key European cargo hub. In response, both airports suspended all flight operations for approximately one hour, reopening briefly at 9:00 PM (20:00 GMT).
Second Closures and Extended Delays
The respite proved short-lived. A second drone sighting prompted a renewed suspension of operations at both locations starting at 10:00 PM (21:00 GMT). Full service was eventually restored by 11:00 PM (22:00 GMT), but the repeated interruptions caused significant delays and cancellations.
Impact on Air Travel
Brussels Airport officials warned that the fallout from the disruptions could extend into wednesday, impacting numerous flights. FlightAware data recorded 59 canceled flights and 43 delayed flights at Brussels Airport on Tuesday. Several flights were diverted to alternative airports as a precautionary measure.
Inquiry Underway and National Response
Belgian Interior Minister Bernard quintin affirmed that a full investigation is underway. He emphasized the necessity of a “coordinated, national response” to address the threat posed by unauthorized drone activity. “We cannot accept that our airports are disrupted by unauthorised drone flights,” Minister Quintin stated.
Broader European Concerns
This incident isn’t isolated. Over the weekend, three unidentified drones were observed near a Belgian military installation, prompting concerns about potential opposed intent. Defence Minister Theo Francken suggested, via X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, that the activity at Kleine Brogel airbase appeared to be “a clear command targeting” the facility.
Since September, a pattern of unexplained drone sightings has emerged across Europe, including reported incidents in Denmark, Germany, and Norway. Intelligence services in Denmark have indicated a possible link to Russia,characterizing the activity as a form of “hybrid warfare” designed to exert pressure without escalating to direct armed conflict.
| Location | Initial Disruption Time | Resumption of Operations | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brussels Airport | 8:00 PM (19:00 GMT) | 11:00 PM (22:00 GMT) – with interruptions | 59 cancelled flights, 43 delayed |
| Liege Airport | 8:00 PM (19:00 GMT) | 11:00 PM (22:00 GMT) – with interruptions | Delays and potential rerouting |
The Growing Threat of Drone Interference
The increasing prevalence of commercially available drones has presented new challenges to airport security globally. While drones offer numerous benefits in areas like inspection and logistics, their potential misuse poses a real and growing threat. According to a December 2023 report by the European aviation Safety Agency (EASA), reported drone incidents across Europe have increased by over 40% in the past year.
Did You Know? Drone detection and countermeasure technologies are rapidly evolving, but keeping pace with increasingly elegant drone capabilities remains a significant challenge.
Many airports are now investing in drone detection systems, including radar, acoustic sensors, and radio frequency detectors. However, effectively neutralizing drones without causing collateral damage or interfering with other aircraft remains a complex issue.
Pro Tip: Travelers should always check with their airlines for the latest flight status facts before heading to the airport, notably in light of potential disruptions caused by drone activity or other security concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions about Drone Disruptions at Airports
What do you think about the escalating drone threats to airport security? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
