Denmark's Aalborg airport in the northern region has been closed after unauthorized drones were reported in its airspace, as confirmed by local authorities.
Three smaller airports in southern Denmark—Esbjerg, Sønderborg, and Skrydstrup—also experienced drone activity but remained operational. This disturbing trend follows a recent closure of Copenhagen airport earlier this week due to a similar drone incursion, labeled by the Danish prime minister as the most severe attack on Danish infrastructure so far.
Police are investigating the drones, which were visible from the ground, and have not ruled out the possibility that the incidents might be pranks. Law enforcement is working to determine who is controlling the devices.
So far, at least three flights have been diverted from Aalborg, affecting military operations since the airport also serves as a base for the Danish Armed Forces. We cannot yet comment on the purpose of the drones flying in the area, nor can we say anything about who the actor behind it is, stated Chief Inspector Jesper Bøjgaard Madsen.
North Jutland Police assured the public there is no immediate threat to airport passengers or area residents, though they advised staying clear of the airport vicinity.
In addition to the incidents in Aalborg, police are closely monitoring the situation at the other airports, emphasizing their seriousness about the events while withholding information on possible motives.
The Danish air traffic authority has halted all arrivals and departures at Aalborg until Thursday morning, leading to diversions of two flights back to Copenhagen and one to Karup.
This drone activity has heightened awareness across Europe, as several NATO member states report similar incursions believed to be linked to Russian activities. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen acknowledged that the circumstances reflect the precarious times facing Europe and could potentially indicate Russian involvement in these drone sightings, although this assertion has been dismissed by Russian officials as unfounded.
In light of recent escalations in the region, NATO has condemned such actions, warning they risk miscalculation and endanger lives, stating they will utilize all necessary measures to protect their airspace.