Drone intrudes at military airport in Denmark, sparking panic; alert issued

Denmark's Aalborg Airport was closed early Thursday morning after suspicious drones were spotted in its airspace. This incident followed a four-hour flight disruption at Copenhagen Airport two days earlier.

Denmark has described the incident as the most serious attack on its infrastructure to date. North Jutland Police reported that the drones were spotted starting at 9:44 p.m. Wednesday.

The drones were flying with bright flashing lights. Eurocontrol announced that flights at Aalborg would be completely suspended until 4:00 a.m. GMT due to drone activity.

Aalborg Airport is important not only for commercial flights but also for the Danish military, as it serves as a military base.

The Danish military stated its cooperation with local and national police in the investigation but declined to comment further. Police stated that three flights were diverted to other airports and there was no threat to passengers or local residents.

Drone incursions also hit Southern Denmark

Southern Jutland Police reported on X that drones were also spotted near Esberg, Sønderborg, and Skrydstrup airports, where Denmark's F-16 and F-35 fighter jets are deployed. National Police Commissioner Thorkild Fogde said that since Monday, several drone complaints have been received, some of which are of concern to the police and military. The Aalborg incident is being considered serious.

Police said it was too early to determine the drone's purpose and the party responsible. The investigation involves the National Intelligence Service, the armed forces, and agencies from other countries. The drone will be shot down if possible.

Suspicions about Russia

Denmark linked the Copenhagen Airport incident to suspected drone attacks linked to Russia, which European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described as part of a continuing challenge on Europe's borders. However, Russia's ambassador to Denmark dismissed these allegations as baseless. In Norway, Oslo Airport was also closed for three hours on Monday, and authorities from both countries are cooperating, but no clear link has been established between the incidents.

Police assured that the situation is under control and an investigation is underway. These drone activities have raised security concerns in Denmark and Europe.