Low-level flight of the Bundeswehr over Neubrandenburg: residents in uproar!

Low-level flight of the Bundeswehr over Neubrandenburg: residents in uproar!

In Woggersin, a small village near Neubrandenburg, a low-level flight by a Bundeswehr transport aircraft caused a lot of excitement among the residents. On Thursday afternoon, June 14, 2025, an Airbus A400M took off from Wunstorf Air Base in Lower Saxony and caused some heated discussions in the region. Lothar Prehn, a concerned resident, was critical of the noise pollution, the dangers of fine dust and possible safety risks associated with such low flights. Nordkurier reports that the plane took off at 11 a.m. and flew over Eberswalde and Prenzlau on its way to the lap of honor over Strasburg before landing around 12:25 p.m.

This low-level flight was carried out as part of exercises for “Bundeswehr Day” on June 28th in the Tollense barracks. Exactly a week earlier, three A400Ms were spotted over the region and caused mixed reactions among residents. While some people were impressed by the size and capabilities of the aircraft, others were less enthusiastic about the noise associated with the flyover.

The Airbus A400M in detail

The Airbus A400M, one of the Bundeswehr's largest transport aircraft, has a maximum take-off weight of an impressive 141 tons. With a cargo space volume of 340 cubic meters, the machine can transport up to 114 soldiers or large vehicles such as tanks. According to 24rhein the concept allows for a lot of useful equipment, including attack helicopters or off-road vehicles, for various missions. Additionally, the A400M is known for its ability to operate on short, unpaved runways.

With a length of 45.10 meters and a wingspan of 42.36 meters, the A400M offers space for various transport needs. The range varies depending on the payload, from 3,300 kilometers with a full payload to 8,700 kilometers when empty. These aircraft are a valuable addition to the Air Force, now replacing the older C-160 TRANSALL that were retired at the end of 2021.

Reactions from the population

The residents in Woggersin and the surrounding area are divided. Some expressed concern on social media about the extreme depth of the flight and concerns about safety. A similar incident was observed in the Rems-Murr district, where residents observed an A400M flight in shocking close proximity on January 10, 2025. Concerns often include not only noise, but also concerns about the dangers posed by falling parts of the aircraft, reports Stuttgarter Nachrichten.

The residents' sacred gardens appear to be in danger when the Bundeswehr exercises, and it remains to be seen how the relevant authorities will respond to these concerns. Even if military flights are permitted under certain conditions and times, it may become necessary to have a better dialogue between the Bundeswehr and concerned residents. The debate about low-level flights clearly shows that views and opinions in the region are as diverse as the paths that jets take through the sky.