Danish police reported that drones caused the closure of Aalborg airport, a pattern similar to a recent incident at Copenhagen airport. Denmark stated on Tuesday that the Copenhagen airport incident was the most serious attack on its critical infrastructure to date and has linked it to a series of suspected Russian drone incursions and other disruptions across Europe.
Details of the Incident
- Aalborg Airport Closure: The airport was shut down for more than three hours, from 9:44 pm on Wednesday until 12:54 am on Thursday.
- Military Base: Aalborg airport also serves as a military base, affecting Denmark’s armed forces. The armed forces are now assisting police in the investigation.
- Multiple Drones: Northern Jutland police confirmed that “more than one drone” with lights on was sighted near the airport. Efforts to take down the drones were unsuccessful, and the operators have not been apprehended.
- Other Sightings: Drones were also spotted near airports in Esbjerg, Sonderborg, and Skrydstrup, the base for Denmark’s F-16 and F-35 fighter jets.
European Context and Reactions
- Pattern of Incursions: The incident is part of a broader “pattern of persistent contestation at our borders,” according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. This follows a similar three-hour closure of Oslo airport in Norway due to a drone sighting.
- Suspected Russian Involvement: Danish officials have linked the incidents to a series of suspected Russian drone incursions. However, Russia’s ambassador to Denmark has stated that any such suspicions are unfounded.
- Ongoing Investigation: Norwegian and Danish authorities are in close contact, but a direct connection between the Copenhagen and Oslo incidents has not yet been established.
