Eindhoven, Netherlands – November 22, 2025: Air traffic at Eindhoven Airport, a key hub serving both civilian and military flights in the southern Netherlands, was temporarily suspended for several hours due to multiple drone sightings. The Dutch Defence Minister, Ruben Brekelmans, confirmed that all air operations resumed around 11:00 PM (22:00 GMT) after the security incident.

Civilian and Military Flights Affected

The suspension impacted both commercial airlines and military operations. “Defence has taken necessary measures,” Minister Brekelmans said, adding that, for security reasons, no further information about the drones could be released. The origins of the drones remain unknown, and authorities continue to investigate the incident.

Eindhoven Airport serves as a vital connection point for domestic and international travelers, as well as a strategic military airbase. As a result, the temporary halt in operations caused significant disruption to air traffic schedules and raised concerns about aviation safety.

Rising Drone-Related Airspace Incidents Across Europe

This recent incident in Eindhoven is part of a broader trend of drone incursions disrupting European airspace. In September 2025, over 20 Russian drones reportedly entered Polish airspace, while three Russian military jets briefly violated Estonian airspace. These incidents have prompted European officials to describe such drone flights as potential elements of “hybrid warfare,” a term used by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Security experts warn that unidentified drones pose a growing threat to aviation safety, especially when flying near civilian airports or military installations. Authorities across Europe have intensified monitoring and enforcement to prevent further disruptions.

Dutch Military Engages Drones at Volkel Air Base

In a related development, Dutch military personnel opened fire on drones near Volkel Air Base, located in the eastern Netherlands, on Friday evening. The drones were reported between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM local time, prompting ground-based defensive measures. Despite the engagement, no wreckage was recovered, and the drones departed the area without being captured.

Recent weeks have seen an increase in drone activity near Dutch and Belgian military sites. The Ministry of Defence, along with local police authorities, is investigating these incidents. The exact motives behind the drone flights remain unclear, but their presence near sensitive locations continues to raise national security concerns.

Safety Measures and Regulations

The Netherlands strictly prohibits drone operations near airports and military bases to ensure flight safety and national security. Any drone activity near these zones is considered a serious offense. Dutch authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any unauthorized drone sightings to prevent potential threats to aviation and public safety.

Conclusion

The Eindhoven Airport drone incident highlights the ongoing challenges posed by unidentified drones across Europe. As aviation authorities and military forces enhance surveillance and security protocols, both civilian and military air traffic operations continue to prioritize passenger safety while investigating these unusual airspace disruptions.