• Munich Airport faced a second drone-related closure within 24 hours, disrupting thousands of passengers.
• Officials reported 23 inbound flights diverted, 12 Munich-bound flights canceled, and about 46 departures canceled or delayed, with roughly 6,500 passengers affected.
• European authorities vow tougher drone defenses and discuss measures with EU partners, amid ongoing cross-border incidents.
• The wider context includes multiple European countries reporting drone sightings and Russia-related allegations, with denials from Moscow.

Munich Airport faced back-to-back disruptions due to drone sightings, with the latest closure extending into Saturday morning and affecting about 6,500 passengers. Reports described 23 incoming flights diverted and 12 flights bound for Munich canceled, while 46 departures were cancelled or delayed as the airport prepared for a restart. The situation echoed earlier disruptions the previous night. according to BBC, Channel News Asia, Al Jazeera, Times of India, The Local, and AA.

Authorities signaled that the security focus would extend beyond a single incident, with German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt and other officials calling for stronger countermeasures. Reuters reported Dobrindt’s push to advance anti-drone defenses at a European ministerial meeting, while BBC noted plans to bring forward legislation to simplify police access to the military for drone suppression. The Local also highlighted ongoing discussions about security enhancements. according to Reuters, BBC, Channel News Asia, The Local

Across Europe, authorities have reported drone sightings in several countries, with Russia frequently cited as a potential source of the activity though Moscow denies involvement. The BBC noted Russia’s denial, while Channel News Asia and Al Jazeera highlighted wider concerns about Russian or other actors involved, and the denials from Moscow were echoed in other outlets. The situation feeds into a broader debate over aviation security and defense capabilities in Europe. according to BBC, Channel News Asia, Al Jazeera, Reuters

By Saturday morning, Munich Airport had begun a gradual reopening, with operations resuming from about 7 am local time and passengers urged to check flight statuses. Reports from Channel News Asia, Al Jazeera, Times of India, The Local, and AA detailed the restart timeline and the continuing expectation of delays, as authorities distributed camp beds and supplies to stranded travelers. according to Channel News Asia, Al Jazeera, Times of India, The Local, AA.