A Eurofighter was probably damaged in a collision with a drone while approaching Manching Airport. The Eurofighter was nevertheless able to land safely, the Upper Bavaria North Police Headquarters announced on Monday. The damage discovered after landing suggested a collision with a drone that was being operated by an unknown person in the approach path without a permit. The criminal investigation department has launched an investigation into dangerous interference with air traffic and violations of the Aviation Security Act. The police have called on witnesses to come forward.
The incident occurred last Wednesday. The collision is believed to have occurred about 300 meters east of the runway near the municipality of Ernsgaden in the Upper Bavarian district of Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm over uninhabited areas, the police explained. The Eurofighter’s ability to fly was not affected, but damage was caused to the outer shell. The height was initially unclear.
The police stressed that drones may only be flown in the vicinity of airports with the permission of the airport operator. Otherwise they would pose a danger to air traffic.