Skip to main content

Suspected Arson Attack Destroys Training Aircraft at Montpellier Airport

Early Morning Incident at Montpellier Airport

In the early hours of May 20, 2025, a suspected arson attack occurred at Airways Aviation Academy (ESMA) located at Montpellier–Méditerranée Airport (IATA: MPL, ICAO: LFMT) in Hérault, France. Perpetrators unlawfully accessed a secure apron area within the airport grounds and attempted to set fire to the academy's fleet of training aircraft. Three Diamond DA42 Twin Star aircraft were completely destroyed, and several other aircraft sustained significant damage. 

Investigation and Security Concerns

French authorities have cordoned off the affected area, treating it as a crime scene. A specialist investigation team from Paris is supporting local police in reviewing security footage and pursuing those responsible. The breach of a restricted zone has prompted scrutiny of security protocols at Montpellier–Méditerranée Airport, a key hub for commercial and general aviation.

Impact on Training Operations

The destruction of the Diamond DA42 aircraft has disrupted pilot training operations at ESMA. While ground training continues, the loss of these aircraft is expected to delay flight training schedules. The academy is working diligently to re-establish operations, but replacing the damaged fleet will be costly and time-consuming.

Official Statement

Romy Hawatt, Founder and Chairman of Airways Aviation Group, stated:

"This is a disturbing and unacceptable act of planned sabotage that strikes at the heart of our aviation community. While we are relieved that no one was injured, the destruction of our aircraft will have severe consequences on our operations, and it is a personal blow to our dedicated team. We are fully cooperating with authorities and will take every measure necessary to ensure the future safety and security of our people and assets.”

Conclusion

The incident at Montpellier Airport underscores the importance of robust security measures at aviation facilities. As investigations continue, authorities and the aviation community are focusing on enhancing security protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.


Keywords: Montpellier airport arson, Diamond DA42 destroyed, Airways Aviation ESMA, flight school aircraft fire, aviation security France


Sources:

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Hi, Thanks for your comment :)

Most Read Post On This Blog in 30 Days

Trump Says Iran Deal Is Final, but Tehran Says Negotiations Are Not Over

  June 13, 2026 A new disagreement has emerged between the United States and Iran over the status of a proposed agreement that President Donald Trump claims is essentially complete. Iranian officials, however, insist that no final deal has been approved and that negotiations are still underway. Speaking to reporters this week, Trump expressed confidence that an agreement had been reached and suggested that a formal signing could take place soon. According to U.S. officials, the proposed arrangement could include a ceasefire framework, measures to secure shipping routes in the Persian Gulf, and steps toward resolving disputes surrounding Iran's nuclear program. Iran has responded cautiously to those claims. Officials in Tehran have stated that while discussions have made progress, no final decision has been made. They emphasized that several key issues remain unresolved and that any agreement must first receive approval through Iran's internal political process. The differing st...
Post a Comment
Continue Reading
Update cookies preferences