Eurofighter jets were scrambled to escort a distressed aircraft that forced an emergency landing, prompting the closure of Nuremberg Airport on Tuesday.

Airport officials said the runway was shut within minutes of the aircraft’s approach, halting all departures and arrivals. Dozens of flights were cancelled, leaving thousands of passengers stranded at the terminal.

"The situation is being handled with the highest priority to ensure safety," the airport spokesperson said.

According to the German Federal Aviation Authority, the aircraft – a commercial flight originating from Corfu, Greece – reported a technical fault shortly before entering German airspace. The pilot requested priority handling, and air traffic controllers coordinated an escort with two Eurofighter Typhoons to guide the plane to a safe landing at Nuremberg.

Airport Operations Halted

Runway closures mean that both inbound and outbound traffic are diverted to nearby airports such as Munich and Frankfurt. Lufthansa, Eurowings and several charter operators announced cancellations and offered re‑booking on alternative routes.

Ground staff set up temporary assistance points in the terminal to provide information and accommodation vouchers, though the airport warned that normal services may not resume until the runway is cleared and inspected.

Authorities Mobilise

The German Air Force confirmed that Eurofighter Typhoons from the nearby Jagdgeschwader 73 unit were deployed, marking a rare use of fighter aircraft for a civilian escort mission. The jets maintained a protective formation over the aircraft until it touched down safely.

Federal Police and fire crews were on standby, and the Federal Ministry of Transport issued a statement that all safety protocols were being followed. No injuries were reported, and the aircraft’s passengers were unharmed.

Travel Disruption Across Germany

Airlines forecast that the ripple effect could affect up to 150 flights across the region, with potential knock‑on delays at connecting hubs. The German airline association warned that passengers may face extended wait times even after the runway reopens.

Travel insurers have been alerted to the incident, and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency is monitoring the situation for any broader implications on air traffic management.

Officials expect the runway to be inspected later this afternoon, after which limited operations may resume. Passengers are advised to check with their carriers for the latest updates.