Flights were suspended at Denmark’s Aalborg Airport on Thursday following reports of drone activity in the surrounding airspace, marking the second airport closure in the country this week due to unmanned aerial vehicles. The disruption lasted approximately three hours, during which several incoming flights were rerouted to other airports. Danish national police confirmed that the closure was initiated shortly before 10 p.m. local time after multiple drones were observed flying near the airport. The drones reportedly remained in the vicinity until nearly 1 a.m., after which airspace operations resumed.
Authorities said the activity followed a similar pattern to drone sightings earlier in the week at Copenhagen Airport, where air traffic was halted for nearly four hours. The latest incident prompted a coordinated response from local law enforcement and the Danish Armed Forces, which are jointly investigating the unauthorized aerial activity. A spokesperson for North Jutland Police stated that efforts are underway to identify the operators of the drones and determine how they accessed restricted airspace. Aalborg Airport, located in northern Denmark, serves both civilian and military operations.
Its temporary closure comes just two days after Copenhagen Airport was similarly affected by drone sightings, forcing delays and cancellations across multiple airlines and disrupting travel for thousands of passengers. Officials said that two to three drones were involved in the Copenhagen event, and described the aircraft as operating with advanced maneuverability. In addition to Aalborg and Copenhagen, Danish authorities also confirmed drone sightings at airports in Esbjerg, Sønderborg, and Skrydstrup late Wednesday and early Thursday.
Civil aviation agency urges public to comply with drone laws
Skrydstrup houses a Royal Danish Air Force base that is home to Denmark’s F-16 and F-35 fighter jets. The Danish Transport Authority said it was working closely with the military and intelligence agencies to assess the scope of the incidents and maintain flight safety across all commercial and defense airfields. Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said the incidents represent a serious challenge to national security and indicated that all available surveillance and monitoring systems are being utilized. Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard stated that steps are being taken to bolster Denmark’s drone defense capabilities, including reviewing current regulations and enhancing enforcement powers for critical infrastructure operators.
Copenhagen Airport, Denmark’s busiest aviation hub, reported significant operational disruptions following Monday’s drone incursion. Air traffic was halted for nearly four hours as aviation security protocols were activated. Thirty-one flights were affected, and thousands of passengers experienced delays or diversions. Authorities have since increased monitoring around the facility and expanded patrols in the vicinity. No group or individual has claimed responsibility for the drone activity, and Danish authorities have not disclosed any information regarding the origin or type of drones involved.
Evidence collection underway across radar and visual channels
Officials stated that investigations remain ongoing and that evidence is being collected from radar systems, eyewitness reports, and technical surveillance equipment. In a statement, the Danish Civil Aviation and Railway Authority emphasized the importance of maintaining public safety and operational continuity. The agency urged drone operators to adhere strictly to aviation laws and confirmed that any unauthorized drone activity near airports is subject to legal prosecution.
Airlines operating in and out of Denmark have been advised to remain alert and to coordinate closely with air traffic control. No injuries or damage to aircraft were reported in connection with any of the drone sightings this week. Denmark’s Transport Ministry stated it will continue working with European aviation authorities to monitor developments and maintain the security of regional and international flight operations. – By EuroWire News Desk.