Federal police deployed a bomb-disposal robot to remove the detonator from the drone, which was found close to an Antonov Airlines plane displaying Ukrainian markings. Flights were diverted for several hours from around midnight as authorities secured the area.

Cargo plane hits unknown object during approach

Separately, authorities confirmed that another cargo aircraft struck an unidentified flying object while approaching the airport.

The incident occurred around six kilometers from the airport at an altitude of approximately 400 meters. The aircraft sustained minor damage but landed safely at Hanover Airport.

Investigation underway over possible security threat

Leipzig-Halle Airport, a major logistics hub for DHL and an important transport facility for the German military, NATO, and Ukrainian aviation, has previously experienced security concerns, including a suspicious parcel fire in July 2024.

Ukrainian Ambassador to Germany Oleksii Makeiev accused Moscow of conducting a hybrid war against Europe, while German authorities investigate the incident amid broader concerns over possible sabotage and espionage activities targeting infrastructure connected to Ukraine.

German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt also cut short his vacation to visit the site as investigations continue.