air-cargo

Security Incident at Leipzig Airport After Explosive Device Discovery

A drone equipped with an explosive device was discovered in the cargo operations zone at Leipzig Airport late August 4, prompting authorities to temporarily close runways and deploy explosive ordnance disposal teams. State police and federal officials secured the device and removed the detonator. During the runway closure, a DHL freighter encountered an unidentified flying object while executing a go-around maneuver. The aircraft sustained minor damage but landed safely in Hanover. The north runway reopened around 2 a.m. after extensive airport inspection. A second drone was reported near an Antonov aircraft during the incident. Saxon interior minister Armin Schuster characterized the events as a serious security threat, with state and federal authorities investigating jointly. The Counter-Terrorism and Extremism Center is leading the inquiry. Officials said the incidents are not connected to a 2024 incendiary device fire at the airport.