For “security reasons,” the minister has not yet disclosed the specifics of the measures being implemented.
Earlier, Brekelmans reported that “counter-drone measures from Defense” were prepared to intervene. Police and military police were present at the airport.
“Disruption of air traffic by drones is unacceptable. Therefore, we are taking action against it,” stated Brekelmans.
Eindhoven Airport is not only an airport but also houses a military airbase. Consequently, both civilian and military air traffic were suspended.
Flights scheduled to land in Eindhoven were redirected to Amsterdam, Brussels, Rotterdam, and Weeze (Germany). Additionally, a flight from Eindhoven to Porto experienced delays.
Earlier on Saturday, it was reported that five to ten drones were spotted over the Volkel airbase, approximately 30 kilometers from Eindhoven Airport, on Friday evening. Air force personnel attempted to take down the drones from the ground using weapons, but this effort was unsuccessful. The objects flew away and have not been located since.
In recent months, there has been an increasing number of drone sightings at European airports, military installations, and other critical infrastructure. Norway and Denmark have already encountered similar issues. Earlier this month, air traffic to and from Brussels and Liège airports in Belgium was briefly halted.
