Massive Hochgrat rescue drill to disrupt traffic and airspace on March 25
A large-scale joint exercise will take place in the Hochgrat region on Wednesday, March 25, with a backup date of Thursday, March 26. The drill involves the German Armed Forces, the Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW), and local mountain rescue services. Residents and visitors should prepare for increased helicopter activity and temporary road closures.
The operation will focus on deploying personnel and equipment to the remote Hochgrat area. A CH-53 transport helicopter from Laupheim's Helicopter Squadron 64, along with lighter utility helicopters, will transport supplies and rescue teams. Around 40 THW responders will take part, working alongside Bundeswehr crews to establish a logistics base and set up mobile power systems for mountain rescue scenarios.
Helicopters will fly between Lindenberg and Weiler from morning until afternoon. To ensure safety, the public must stay at least 150 metres away from operational zones and landing sites. Speed limits in the area will drop to 10 km/h (6 mph), and Schreckenmanklitzer Straße and Ruppenmanklitzer Straße will close from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, causing short detours and delays of up to five minutes.
Strict safety measures will be in place, including restricted airspace (Säulenverbot), temporary flight bans for civilian aircraft, and ground patrols by THW teams. Radar monitoring, spotters, and designated emergency landing zones will help manage risks. Public warnings will be issued via apps and local announcements to keep people clear of helicopters and operational areas.
The exercise aims to test and improve coordination between military, rescue, and civil protection teams. By simulating real crisis conditions, the drill will help refine procedures for rapid response in emergencies. Residents are advised to follow safety instructions and expect minor disruptions during the operation.
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