Flight operations at German airports are increasingly disrupted by drone sightings, leading to temporary halts in takeoffs and landings. Data from German Air Traffic Control shows 81 drone incidents in the first eight months of 2024, with seven resulting in operational suspensions. Despite these challenges, efforts to develop effective detection systems have stalled due to funding issues. Meanwhile, innovative counter-drone strategies are emerging, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures at airports.
Disruptions in Flight Operations Due to Drones at German Airports
Flight activities at airports across Germany are increasingly facing interruptions caused by drone sightings. These incidents have led to the suspension of takeoffs and landings for safety reasons. Alarmingly, efforts to establish detection systems to tackle this issue appear to be stagnant.
According to data from the German Air Traffic Control (DFS), the first eight months of 2024 saw 81 incidents involving drones near airports. During this timeframe, flight operations were temporarily halted on seven occasions. However, it’s believed that the actual number of drones operating in restricted airspace is significantly higher.
Despite these disruptions, the DFS has paused its efforts on developing systematic detection measures at airports, citing unresolved funding issues. A working group from the Interior and Transport Ministries is currently reviewing the financial aspects of this project.
Comprehensive Testing for Effective Solutions
Björn Simon, a CDU transport politician and member of the DFS advisory board, has voiced strong criticism towards the federal government’s lack of action. In an interview with Report Mainz, he stated, “If the government fails to respond, the risk of an incident occurring escalates until the pressure mounts for them to take effective measures.”
In 2020, the DFS conducted extensive tests over four months, including trials at Frankfurt Airport. The findings revealed that existing detection systems, primarily derived from military technology, were largely ineffective and unreliable. A potential solution lies in a combination of various sensor technologies that can offset each other’s limitations.
Challenges in Drone Detection
The DFS has not provided comments in response to inquiries from the ARD political magazine, instead directing questions to the federal ministries. When asked about the financing of systematic drone detection efforts, both the Federal Ministry of the Interior and the Federal Ministry of Transport remained vague. They did mention that established procedures are in place to ensure the safe management of air traffic and noted the formation of a joint working group in August 2022 aimed at creating a comprehensive strategy involving all stakeholders.
Given the limitations of radar in detecting unmanned aerial vehicles, most drone sightings are reported by pilots who spot them from the cockpit. For instance, on July 1, 2024, pilots landing at Frankfurt/Main Airport reported seeing an orange drone, followed by another crew that spotted a yellow drone on the same day. Neither of these drones was intercepted by the federal police.
This situation underscores the need for effective measures to support drone operations while maintaining safety at airports.
Innovative Developments in Drone Interception
In a promising move, the Helmut Schmidt University of the Bundeswehr, in collaboration with various partners, has developed a robust counter-drone strategy, supported by 1.8 million euros from the Federal Ministry of Transport. The interceptor drone system, named ‘Falke,’ was finalized in January 2023.
Ralf Heynicke, the project manager for drone development, stated, “We have invested significantly in research, resulting in a prototype interceptor drone.” Moreover, a startup has been established to further refine this drone for commercial use. Heynicke added, “It would be beneficial to implement such systems if there is a demand.”
While the Federal Ministry of the Interior and the Federal Ministry of Transport declined to comment on the ‘Falke’ project, they acknowledged the need for ongoing advancements in detection and defense technologies due to the evolving nature of drone technology. Currently, the federal police do possess technical capabilities to detect and intercept drones, though specifics were not provided.
Transport politician Simon emphasizes an urgent need for government action, highlighting the growing threat to public safety in Germany. He warns that German airports are ill-equipped and face significant risks, especially as small drones are increasingly employed for malicious activities in other regions. “The possibility of drones landing on airport grounds or targeting aircraft is a real concern,” Simon cautioned.
This critical issue will be featured by Das Erste in ‘Report Mainz’ on November 5, 2024, at 9:45 PM.