The disruption began shortly after 9:00 a.m. local time when two pilots reported what appeared to be drones in the vicinity of the airport, according to police.

In coordination with German air traffic control authorities, security officials ordered the temporary closure of the airport’s runways as a precautionary measure, a police spokesperson said.

Authorities deployed a police helicopter and emergency personnel to assess the situation and search the surrounding area for any potential aerial threat.

Airport operations resumed at 10:05 a.m. after investigators completed their initial assessment, airport officials said.

An airport spokesperson said an extensive search conducted by emergency services found no evidence of a threat to public safety, allowing normal flight movements to restart.

The incident underscores ongoing concerns among European aviation authorities regarding unauthorized drone activity near airports, where even unconfirmed sightings can trigger operational disruptions due to safety risks posed to commercial aircraft during takeoff and landing.

Munich Airport, one of Germany’s busiest aviation hubs, did not immediately provide details on the number of flights affected by the temporary suspension.

Police said the incident occurred on Saturday, April 11, when the man accessed a restricted section of the airport in western Ireland. He was detained and remains in custody, according to an official statement.

Video shared on social media platform X appeared to show a person dressed in black standing on top of what media reports identified as a C-130 Hercules transport aircraft. The individual was seen striking the fuselage with an object.

Authorities did not immediately confirm the extent of any damage to the aircraft or how the individual gained access to the secure area.Shannon Airport has long been a focal point of political sensitivity in Ireland due to its role in facilitating the transit of U.S. military personnel and providing logistical support for overseas operations.

Police said investigations into the incident are ongoing.