Armed man breaks into Hamburg Airport, hostage situation suspected, halting all air traffic for almost a day

All air traffic at Hamburg airport has come to a halt as an armed man forcibly entered the airport grounds with his car, leading Hamburg police to suspect a hostage situation.

Reports suggest that the man’s children might be in the car, as his wife had previously reported a potential child abduction. The police have confirmed the presence of at least one child with the man.

The incident occurred just after 20:00, with the man allegedly firing shots into the air, throwing burning bottles, and starting fires near the airport. Consequently, the airport is being evacuated, and air traffic has been suspended, affecting 27 flights, including arrivals from Malaga and Lisbon. Some flights are being diverted, and others have been cancelled.

Update 10:00 (5 November)

According to the police, the man continues to talk with the emergency services, which is a good sign.

The police assume there is a dispute over the custody of the child. The man’s wife had previously reported possible child abduction to the police, the spokesperson said. According to reports, the child stayed with the mother in Stade, in the state of Lower Saxony, on Saturday. Police believe the father took the child by force before driving to Hamburg and entering the airport grounds.

The police are on site with special units and a psychologist and are negotiating in Turkish with the man, who is said to be 35 years old.

Meanwhile, Hamburg Airport remains closed. Passengers are advised not to come to the airport until further notice. Disturbances are expected throughout the remainder of Sunday.

Update 5 November at 15:00

The police action has ended. The man gave himself up to the authorities without resistance and was arrested. His daughter appears to be unharmed.

Preparations are underway to resume flight operations as quickly as possible. Airport management is in close coordination with the security forces as to when the access roads and terminals will be reopened.

Update 5 November 18:15

The first take-offs and landings have resumed. Altogether, 286 flights with around 35,000 passengers have been affected by the cancellations.

However, there are still significant cancellations and delays today. Please keep an eye on your flight status and contact your airline if necessary.