UPDATE: Flights have been significantly disrupted at Gothenburg’s Landvetter Airport in western Sweden following a drone sighting that led to immediate airspace closure. Authorities confirmed that traffic was halted shortly before 6:00 PM (1700 GMT) as a precautionary measure.
Officials from Swedavia, the airport operator, reported the closure, stating, “The airspace over Landvetter is closed at the moment because of an indication of a suspected drone,” according to Susanne Norman, COO of Swedavia.
In a statement, Bjorn Stavas, spokesman for Sweden’s air traffic control LFV, emphasized that it remains unclear whether one or multiple drones were involved in the sighting. The incident has already led to multiple flights being cancelled, delayed, or redirected.
The situation at Landvetter Airport follows a troubling trend of drone-related disruptions across Europe. Earlier this week, drone sightings at Brussels Airport resulted in the cancellation of over 80 flights.
This surge in drone incidents coincides with increased scrutiny over possible foreign involvement, particularly with heightened tensions related to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Speculation surrounds potential Russian connections to these drone activities, raising alarms about security at sensitive locations across Europe.
As authorities continue to assess the situation, travelers are advised to check the status of their flights and remain vigilant. Further updates are expected as the investigation into the drone sighting unfolds.
This developing story highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures at airports globally, as the impact of drone activities poses a real threat to air travel safety.
