Large-Scale Emergency Drill Disrupts Allgäu with Helicopters and Road Closures
Residents in Western and Upper Allgäu will see increased helicopter activity on Wednesday, March 25. The German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr), the Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW), and mountain rescue teams are conducting a large-scale training exercise. The operation will test emergency response procedures and coordination between military and civilian agencies.
The exercise focuses on transporting personnel and supplies to the remote Hochgrat area. Key tasks include setting up a logistics base and installing mobile power systems to support mountain rescue operations. Helicopters will fly between Lindenberg and Weiler, with a CH-53 transport helicopter, lighter utility helicopters, and a search-and-rescue helicopter from Niederstetten Army Airfield all involved.
Around 40 THW responders are taking part, supported by multiple Bundeswehr helicopters. The drill aims to strengthen civil protection networks and improve rapid-response coordination in real crises. Safety measures include predefined emergency landing sites, continuous radio contact with ground control, and real-time GPS tracking. Rescue teams will remain on standby, while strict weather monitoring and dual-pilot operations with automated fail-safes ensure additional security. Local roads, including Schreckenmanklitzer Straße and Ruppenmanklitzer Straße, will close temporarily on March 25 (or the backup date, March 26) from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Detours will be available via Ruppenmanklitzer Straße, with minor delays of up to five minutes expected. A speed limit of 10 km/h will apply in the exercise zone, and brief full closures may occur during flight operations, managed by posted personnel. The public must keep at least 150 metres away from operational areas and helicopter movements. This precaution is due to potential hazards during takeoffs, landings, and cargo transfers.
The joint exercise will run from morning to afternoon, affecting areas around Lindenberg, Weiler, Hochgrat, and Oberstiegalpe. While local access remains mostly open, residents should prepare for temporary disruptions and increased noise. Authorities have stressed the importance of following safety guidelines during the operation.
