A new drone detection system has been activated at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). The German Air Traffic Control (DFS) aims to use this technology to detect drones early in the approach and departure zones, thereby informing relevant authorities about any potential threats to air traffic. This deployment follows a pattern of repeated drone sightings around German airports.
Federal Transport Minister Steffen Bilger (CDU) stated on Wednesday that the activation of drone detection systems, such as the one now at BER, represents a “significant step” for aviation safety. He emphasized that at major international airports, it is crucial to identify potential drones early and rapidly assess the situation. He added that expanding detection capabilities in the approach and departure areas will establish the necessary technical prerequisites and improve cooperation between air traffic control and security agencies.
Robert Crumbach (SPD), the Minister of Transport for Brandenburg, highlighted that drone detection serves to protect critical infrastructure, ensure air traffic safety, and safeguard people. Crumbach cautioned that drone incidents can stem from various causes, and it is not possible to draw reliable conclusions about operators or a concrete threat level from isolated sightings or detections. Therefore, he stressed the importance of obtaining dependable information as quickly as possible to ensure appropriate action can be taken.
