Belgium boosts drone defenses after airport chaos
Belgium is strengthening its drone defense systems after recent disruptions at major airports
Flights were halted at Zaventem Airport on Thursday night after drones were spotted nearby. They were also seen in other locations, including over a military base.
"Previously, drones flying over our military bases were considered our problem," said Defense Minister Theo Francken. "Now it has become a serious threat affecting civilian infrastructure in several European countries."
Francken said several European allies have offered assistance, and he has accepted help from the German army, which is providing anti-drone defenses.
A large red sign at Brussels Airport reads “NO DRONE ZONE” in white letters, with a black drone inside a red circle with a cross through it. A cartoon airport worker wearing a yellow safety vest is shown pointing to the message. Behind the fence, a blue and white TUI airplane stands on the runway. Reuters
The Belgian government said it is urgently seeking to acquire drone defenses after its main airport near Brussels was temporarily shut down following a drone sighting.
Flights were halted at Zaventem Airport on Thursday night after drones were spotted nearby. They were also seen in other locations, including over a military base.
"Previously, drones flying over our military bases were considered our problem," said Defense Minister Theo Francken. "Now it has become a serious threat affecting civilian infrastructure in several European countries."
Francken said that several European allies have offered assistance, and he has accepted help from the German army, which is providing anti-drone defenses. Approximately 3,000 Brussels Airlines passengers were affected by the disruption, and the airline said it suffered "significant losses" due to dozens of flights being canceled or diverted.
"But it is our responsibility to get passengers to their final destinations as quickly as possible, and for that, we will offer them refunds or alternative flights, as well as cover their hotel and transportation costs."
They added that drones are a "new threat" and therefore, the airline is adapting its emergency plans.
"When our main airport is closed for even just 30 minutes, it has a huge impact, and we have to act quickly."
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