Russian drones entered Polish airspace during an attack on Ukraine, prompting Poland to shoot them down with NATO support and triggering renewed concerns over European civil aviation safety, reported Reuters.

The incident marks the first known NATO military response during Russia's war in Ukraine. Airports in Warsaw, Rzeszow, Lublin and Modlin temporarily closed before resuming operations.

While neighbouring countries have reported occasional drone or missile intrusions since 2022, the scale of this incursion was unprecedented. Aviation experts warned of growing risks to commercial flights near conflict zones.

Airline operations are already strained by airspace closures across Russia, Ukraine, the Middle East, parts of Africa and between India and Pakistan. Detours increase fuel costs and journey times, adding pressure to profitability.

Eurocontrol said Ukraine's closed airspace has worsened congestion. Many carriers suspended regional flights since October 2023 due to missile and drone threats.

Airline stocks fell following the incident. IAG dropped 4.1 per cent, easyJet fell 2.2 per cent, and Lufthansa and Ryanair also declined. LOT redirected flights westward and expected delays, while Wizz Air adjusted schedules.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency said no advisory was needed, citing Poland's ability to manage the situation. However, aviation insurers are monitoring developments in Poland and Qatar closely.

Experts warned that repeated incursions or deliberate targeting could raise serious insurance concerns. Airlines may revise risk assessments, fly further west, operate in daylight and carry extra fuel for diversions.

Since 2001, six commercial aircraft have been unintentionally shot down. Recent incidents include the 2020 downing of a Ukrainian jet by Iranian defences and a 2025 crash in Kazakhstan involving Azerbaijan Airlines.

Eric Schouten of Dyami consultancy said misidentification remains the greatest risk. Analysts urged vigilance as conflict zones increasingly overlap with civilian air routes.