Flights at Vilnius International Airport were suspended for the third time in one week on Friday following the detection of unidentified airborne objects, believed to be balloons.
The Lithuanian authorities have attributed the interruption to suspected Belarusian balloons crossing into Lithuanian airspace. This disruption involved grounding flights to ensure safety while the objects were being monitored.
Air traffic was halted temporarily as airport officials prioritized precautionary measures. The incident reflects ongoing tensions in the region and highlights the sensitivity of controlling airspace near the Belarusian border.
"The flights were halted after suspected balloons were detected crossing into Lithuanian airspace," a local official stated, emphasizing the airport’s commitment to safety.
This marks a recurring event within a single week, indicating persistent challenges in the region's airspace surveillance.
The repeated shutdowns at Vilnius International Airport illustrate the complexity of managing airspace security amid geopolitical tensions and stress the importance of rapid response to airborne threats.