Vilnius Airport experienced major disruptions, forcing closures and leading to flight cancellations, after a fleet of weather balloons carrying thousands of cigarette packs entered Lithuanian airspace from Belarus. The National Crisis Management Centre (NCMC) reported that 25 meteorological balloons were detected, with two directly overflying the airport. This incident caused 30 flight cancellations, affecting approximately 6,000 passengers, and led to potential delays.
These airspace violations occur amidst heightened tensions in Europe, following several drone incursions suspected to be linked to Russia, which also caused air traffic disruptions. Moscow has denied involvement in these recent events.
Lithuanian officials noted that the use of balloons for smuggling contraband, primarily cigarettes from Belarus, is not uncommon in the region, with hundreds of such balloons recorded entering Lithuania this year alone. The NCMC spokesman explained that meteorological balloons are a cost-effective alternative to drones for smugglers, despite being susceptible to weather conditions.
The authorities are working to intercept contraband and apprehend those involved to deter such activities, which pose a risk to civil aviation.