BERLIN — German authorities are investigating a major security incident after an explosive-laden drone was discovered inside the secure area of Leipzig/Halle Airport, one of Europe's busiest cargo hubs, prompting a temporary suspension of flight operations and a counterterrorism investigation.
The drone was found near several Ukrainian Antonov An-124 cargo aircraft, according to German police and officials. Bomb disposal specialists rendered the device safe after determining it contained high-grade military explosives, while forensic examinations and searches for additional debris continued. Authorities said the investigation remains at an early stage and have not identified those responsible.
German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt described the incident as a new and serious threat scenario and called it a hybrid attack against critical infrastructure, while stressing that investigators had not yet established responsibility. Leipzig/Halle Airport serves as a key logistics hub for commercial cargo operators and supports military transport operations, including flights linked to Ukraine.
Authorities also confirmed that a separate cargo aircraft sustained minor damage after colliding with an unidentified airborne object near the airport during the same period. The aircraft landed safely, and investigators are examining whether the incidents are connected.
Flight operations at Leipzig/Halle were briefly halted as security measures were implemented before normal traffic resumed, according to airport authorities. The disruption affected several cargo carriers operating from the airport.
German officials have not assigned blame for the incident. While some politicians have publicly suggested possible Russian involvement, investigators have said no perpetrators have been officially identified and inquiries remain ongoing. Authorities said further details would be released as the investigation progresses.
