Copenhagen airport, the busiest in the Nordic region, reopened early this morning after drones halted take-offs and landings for nearly four hours.
Air traffic in Denmark and Norway was severely disrupted tyesterday after reports of drone activity forced the closure of major airports, resulting in delays, diversions and a number of cancellations. Authorities in both countries indicated the equipment had been handled with a degree of technical proficiency, prompting an investigation into its origin and intent.
Copenhagen Airport, the principal hub for Scandinavia, suspended take-offs and landings for close to four hours before reopening early on Tuesday. Police confirmed sightings of two to three large drones in the vicinity and said early findings suggested the operators were intent on showcasing their capability. Around 50 flights were redirected to other airports, while residual delays were expected throughout the day.
In Norway, Oslo Airport temporarily closed its airspace after similar sightings just after midnight. The facility remained shut for several hours, with incoming aircraft diverted to nearby airports, before resuming normal operations later in the morning.
Officials from both countries have confirmed that they will collaborate to establish whether the incidents are linked. Investigators are currently examining what type of drones were used and who may have been behind the disruption.
The events underline the increasing risks posed by unauthorised drone operations near airports, where safety concerns and operational disruption can carry significant financial and reputational consequences. Airport operators urged passengers to remain alert for further updates from their airlines, while police declined to release additional details, citing the sensitivity of the ongoing inquiry.