Leipzig: collision between a DHL aircraft and a drone. Berlin: ‘It’s a hybrid attack’
A DHL aircraft collided with an unidentified object at an altitude of 400 metres late yesterday evening in the skies
Key points
“We are facing a very serious security issue,” and “the prospect of a hybrid attack.” This was stated by the German Minister of the Interior Alexander Dobrindt, speaking to the press about the drone incident in Leipzig. “We have already had experience of drone sightings, but a drone armed with explosives arriving at an airport is a new threat scenario,” he added, emphasising that this represents a “new level” of threat.
A DHL aircraft collided with an unidentified object at an altitude of 400 metres late yesterday evening in the skies above Leipzig. The aircraft then landed safely in Hanover, where damage to the front of the fuselage was detected.
“The plane was due to land in Leipzig, but then had to abort its landing manoeuvre,” said a spokesperson for the German Ministry of the Interior at a press conference. “It then struck an object,” he added, noting that it subsequently landed safely in Hanover.
Drone carrying explosives found at Leipzig Airport near a Ukrainian aircraft
A drone fitted with a detonator was found next to a Ukrainian Antonov transport aircraft at Leipzig Airport and has been seized. This was reported by DPA, citing a NATO spokesperson. According to information from security officials, the drone was carrying explosive material, which, however, did not detonate. Leipzig is the main hub in Germany for flights to Ukraine.
It is unclear whether the incidents are linked.
