Greek airspace experienced a significant alert on Friday following the detection of an unauthorized Turkish drone incursion into Athens' Flight Information Region (FIR) near Alexandroupoli in northeastern Greece, prompting the Greek Air Force to dispatch F-16 fighter jets for interception.
According to Greek state television, the drone neared a location close to the end of Alexandroupoli Airport’s runway, at a time when a passenger plane was preparing for takeoff, necessitating a rapid response from the air force and aviation safety authorities.
Alerted F-16s took off and, within minutes, approached, identified, and intercepted the drone before it departed towards Samothraki Island.
A Greek military source confirmed the incident, highlighting that the quick response helped avert any impact on civilian air traffic in the area.
Concurrently, Greek authorities took precautionary measures to protect a passenger flight at Alexandroupoli Airport, adjusting its takeoff path and temporarily keeping it at a low altitude until the drone moved away, allowing the airplane to resume its journey to Athens International Airport safely.
Athens Distinguishes Between Airspace and Flight Information Region
According to Greek military officials, the incident is part of the frequent surveillance and interception operations conducted by the air force over the Aegean Sea, especially when military aircraft or drones violate established aviation protocols.
Greek authorities clarify the difference between breaching national airspace and violating air traffic rules within Athens' FIR. Entering Greek airspace without permission is considered a violation, while entering the FIR without a flight plan submission is seen as a breach of air navigation rules.
Greek military records indicate a rise in drone presence in reported aerial incidents over the Aegean Sea, with specialized forces responsible for monitoring, identifying, and intercepting such incursions according to established guidelines.
The Alexandroupoli incident is particularly significant due to its proximity to a civilian airport and the timing with a passenger plane's imminent takeoff, necessitating swift coordination between civil aviation authorities and the Greek air force to ensure aviation safety.