Editorial Note: This article was rewritten using Artificial Intelligence (AI) based on original, verified sources. The accompanying images were upscaled with the assistance of AI. Any resemblance of figures in the images to real persons is entirely coincidental. Brands and logos depicted are the property of their respective owners and do not imply official endorsement or affiliation.
Schönefeld (dpa) – The German Air Traffic Control (DFS) has activated a new drone detection system at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). This system is designed to detect drones early in the approach and departure areas, informing relevant authorities about potential threats to air traffic, according to the Federal Ministry of Transport.
Increased Drone Sightings Prompt Action
Federal Minister of Transport Steffen Bilger (CDU) emphasized the seriousness of the situation late Tuesday evening at BER. “We take the increasing danger posed by drones in the vicinity of airports very seriously,” Bilger stated. “Therefore, it was important and correct that we acted quickly, and that international commercial airports are now being rapidly equipped with drone detection equipment.”
Brandenburg’s Minister of Transport, Robert Crumbach (SPD), noted that drone incidents can have various causes. “It is naturally the case that not every drone is always a danger, but it is a potential danger, and therefore we must be able to react very quickly. And we can now guarantee that with the new system.”
System Aims to Mitigate Risks
The implementation of this system comes in response to repeated drone sightings near German airports. The Federal Ministry of Transport is committed to further expanding such systems. “Throughout the year, more international commercial airports will be successively equipped with corresponding systems for the approach and departure areas,” the ministry announced.
In the first half of 2026 alone, BER Airport recorded more drone sightings than any other German airport. During these six months, the control tower in Schönefeld registered 28 such flying objects, according to DFS data. This was one more sighting than at Germany’s largest airport in Frankfurt am Main during the same period. In seven instances, air traffic at BER had to be temporarily interrupted due to these sightings.
The new system is expected to significantly enhance the safety and efficiency of air traffic operations at BER by providing early warnings and enabling prompt responses to unauthorized drone activity. This proactive measure underscores the commitment of German authorities to ensure the security of air travel amidst evolving technological challenges.
