New anti-drone system in Lithuania. Photo: LTOU Palanga Airport in western Lithuania, one of the busiest in the country, has begun operating an advanced system to detect unauthorized drones in the airspace near the airport.
The move comes against the backdrop of a significant increase in passenger and flight traffic, and after a record was broken in 2025 with approximately 448,000 passengers, an increase of 18.7% compared to the previous year. The growth rate continued in the first months of 2026.
The area where drones are prohibited includes the airport area and its surroundings, along with nearby residential neighborhoods, areas north of Palanga and even parts of the coastline. Authorities emphasize that the ban is intended to protect aircraft takeoff and landing routes and prevent risks to flight safety.
The new system, which operates around the clock, uses antennas and advanced radio signal detection technology. It can determine the drone's position, altitude, direction of travel, identification details, and even the operator's geographic location.
New anti-drone system in Lithuania. Photo: LTOUIn the event of unauthorized intrusion into the restricted area, immediate alerts are sent to security officials, the police, and air traffic control officials, and it may even be decided to temporarily suspend aircraft movement until the threat is removed.
According to Vidas Kšanas, Director of the Safety, Security and Resilience at Lithuanian Airports., drones pose a new threat to aviation safety, and therefore require a combination of advanced technology and determined enforcement.
Since the system was launched, proceedings have already been taken against five drone operators. According to Lithuanian law, flying a drone in a prohibited area without a permit may result in a fine of 400-800 euros and even confiscation of the drone. In the case of a repeat offense, the fine may reach 1,200 euros and the drone may be confiscated.