Paderborn/Lippstadt Airport evacuated following power outage

A power outage at Paderborn/Lippstadt Airport on August 24, 2026, triggered a major police operation after automatic door unlocking systems compromised terminal security. The failure caused all doors to unlock, removing the barrier between public areas and restricted security zones.

As a precaution against unauthorized access, police conducted a full evacuation and search of the complex using specialized units and dogs. The incident forced approximately 500 passengers to undergo security and baggage checks again, resulting in departure delays of about 90 minutes for three scheduled flights.