Explosive-laden drone discovered at Leipzig/Halle Airport as DHL freighter reports mid-air collision

A major security operation disrupted flight operations at Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) overnight after authorities discovered a modified drone carrying an explosive device in the airport’s secure cargo area. The incident coincided with a separate event involving a DHL cargo aircraft that struck an unidentified object after aborting its landing, prompting a high-level investigation by German authorities.

According to Saxony Police, the drone was found near the airport’s southern runway, close to a Ukrainian Antonov cargo aircraft operating from Leipzig. Bomb disposal specialists deployed a remote-controlled robot to safely remove the detonator before securing the device. Both runways were temporarily closed while investigators examined the scene, resulting in several flight diversions and operational delays. The northern runway reopened after approximately two hours, while the southern runway remained unavailable due to scheduled maintenance. Authorities stressed that passengers and airport staff were never in immediate danger.

At around the same time, a DHL cargo aircraft was forced to discontinue its approach because of the runway closure. During the subsequent flight, the aircraft reportedly collided with an unidentified airborne object before diverting safely to Hanover Airport. The aircraft sustained only minor damage, and no injuries were reported. Investigators have not confirmed whether the object involved in the collision was related to the drone found on the ground.

The investigation has been transferred to Germany’s state security authorities, with counter-terrorism investigators examining the possibility of politically motivated sabotage. Leipzig/Halle Airport is one of Europe’s largest cargo hubs, serving as DHL Express’s principal European hub while also supporting military logistics, including operations linked to NATO and Ukraine. Officials have not publicly identified those responsible, and no direct attribution has been made.