Palanga Airport has installed a new drone detection system designed to improve aviation security and strengthen airspace monitoring around the airport.
Lithuanian Airports has installed a new advanced drone detection system at Palanga Airport (PLQ) as part of wider efforts to strengthen aviation security and airspace monitoring across Lithuania.
The system has been introduced as the airport continues to experience record passenger growth and increased flight activity.
Palanga Airport strengthens aviation security with drone monitoring system
According to Lithuanian Airports, the drone control zone extends beyond the airport perimeter and includes parts of northern Palanga, Kunigiškiai, areas towards Šventoji and sections of the nearby coastline.
Drone flights within the designated zone are prohibited unless authorised by relevant aviation authorities.
Airport officials stated that the restricted areas were established in line with aircraft approach and departure paths in order to maintain high aviation safety standards.
So far this year, 37 unauthorised drone flights have already been recorded within the airport’s control zone.
Vidas Kšanas said unmanned aerial vehicles represent an increasing aviation safety and security challenge, particularly as airports manage growing passenger traffic levels.
The new monitoring technology operates continuously throughout the year and uses antennas to monitor airspace and detect radio signal activity associated with drones.
According to Lithuanian Airports, the system can identify drone location, altitude, movement direction, operating time and the location of drone operators with high precision.
The airport stated that response procedures have been developed in co-ordination with the Public Security Service, police authorities and air navigation service providers.
In cases involving unauthorised drone activity, security teams and police units are immediately notified and operational decisions can be taken regarding air traffic management and potential flight restrictions.
Authorities confirmed that five individuals have already been held administratively responsible following the activation of the system.
Under Lithuanian law, unauthorised drone operations within prohibited airport zones can result in fines ranging from €400 to €1,200 alongside possible confiscation of the drone.
Lithuanian Airports also confirmed that similar drone detection systems are expected to be introduced at Kaunas Airport (KUN) and Vilnius Airport (VNO).
The airport operator stated that public awareness campaigns will also be launched to educate residents and visitors about restricted zones, aviation safety risks and legal requirements linked to drone operations near airports.
In 2025, Palanga Airport handled almost 448,400 passengers, representing annual growth of 18.7 per cent.
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