Summary
Up to 25 small hot-air balloons carrying smuggled cigarettes entered Lithuanian airspace, forcing Vilnius Airport to close temporarily. This caused flight delays affecting about 6,000 passengers. Lithuanian authorities are monitoring the situation due to security concerns.
Key Facts
- Lithuanian airspace saw up to 25 balloons carrying smuggled cigarettes.
- Vilnius Airport had to shut down, disrupting 30 flights and affecting 6,000 passengers.
- Lithuanian border police recovered 11 balloons and found 18,000 packs of smuggled cigarettes.
- The balloons originated from Belarus, which is close to Lithuania's border.
- Hot-air balloons are being used increasingly for smuggling cigarettes as a cheaper option than drones.
- Lithuanian authorities reported similar balloon incidents in August.
- A recent security incident involved drones from Belarus entering Lithuanian airspace.
- Lithuania has authorized its armed forces to shoot down unmanned drones violating its airspace.
