The airspace above Brussels Zaventem Airport was closed after multiple drone sightings prompted significant disruptions to flight operations, as reported by Belgian public broadcaster VRT on Tuesday night.
Initially, all flights departing from and arriving at the airport were halted following the first reported sighting of a drone above the airfield around 8 PM local time. Although the airspace was briefly reopened, it was subsequently closed again after a second drone was spotted, leading to mounting concerns among aviation authorities.
Impact on neighboring airports
Liège Airport, which had been designated as an alternative landing location for aircraft diverted from Brussels, also faced closures following its own drone incident. This series of events highlights ongoing tensions and security challenges in the region.
A spokesperson from skeyes, the organization overseeing Belgium’s civil airspace, indicated that other airports such as Ostend-Bruges and Charleroi Brussels South were utilized to redirect traffic as necessary.
Increased security in response to regional threats
The recent drone incidents occur against a backdrop of heightened vigilance within NATO and the European Union, particularly in light of suspected airspace violations attributed to Russian activity in recent weeks. Following the downing of Russian drones in Poland and reports of unauthorized incursions by Russian fighter jets in Estonia, NATO issued a stern warning to Moscow, emphasizing its commitment to safeguarding its airspace.
“We see drones violating our airspace. Whether it was intentional or not, it is unacceptable. The allies have expressed full solidarity with Poland. It is crucial to counter aggression and defend every member of the Alliance,”
noted NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, reflecting the coalition’s determination to respond decisively to any threats.
The incidents have sparked concern among European leaders regarding the alliance’s readiness to confront increasing Russian aggression, prompting discussions about defense strategies and collaborative efforts to enhance security measures.