What is happening at Vilnius Airport (VNO)?
On September 13, 2026, Vilnius International Airport (VNO) was temporarily closed due to a security alert triggered after birds were mistaken for a drone. This led to the immediate scrambling of NATO jets to verify the aerial threat.
The surveillance system detected unidentified flying objects and incorrectly classified them as drones, activating security protocols. As a result, the airport suspended operations to ensure the safety of flights and infrastructure.
Which flights and airports are affected?
The closure directly affects all departing and arriving flights at Vilnius (VNO). Nearby airports may experience delays or diversions, especially cities connected by direct flights to Vilnius. Among these cities are several European airports that may have to manage extra traffic or face disruptions in connections.
If you have a booked flight departing from or arriving at Vilnius, it is advisable to closely monitor your flight status as cancellations or delays may occur until the airport reopens safely.
Passenger rights under EU261
The event causing the closure qualifies as a force majeure situation due to security reasons, so cancellations or delays caused by this incident are generally considered “extraordinary circumstances” under European Regulation EU261.
This means that airlines are not obliged to provide monetary compensation to passengers but must provide assistance such as:
- Meals and refreshments proportional to the waiting time
- Accommodation assistance if necessary
- Alternative transport to the final destination
It is important, however, to always keep all communications and receipts for potential assistance claims.
Practical advice for passengers
If you need to fly to or from Vilnius in the coming days, here are some useful tips:
- Check your flight status: visit the airline’s website or use our flight checker for real-time updates.
- Arrive at the airport early: there may be stricter security checks and longer queues.
- Consider alternatives: evaluate flights from nearby airports or alternative transport options such as trains or buses, especially for connections from regional airports near Vilnius.
- Stay in contact with the airline: in case of cancellation or delay, inquire about rebooking or vouchers.
- During the wait: look for relaxation areas, refreshment points and ensure your mobile devices are charged to stay updated.
Sources
- Original source: SimpleFlying
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