Published on
20/08/2026 - 13:33 GMT+2
Neither the SAMU nor the civil protection service: rescue helicopters no longer land at night at Hautepierre hospital, to the west of Strasbourg. The decision was taken on 28 July because of the night-time presence of civilian drones in the heliport area.
These devices, carrying parcels, are bound for the nearby Elsau remand prison. In recent years this method of "delivery" has been booming in prisons across France, and Strasbourg is no exception. Since April, the heliport security teams have detected 19 flights over the area.
Two incidents occurred in July. Drones flying over the area prevented helicopters carrying patients from landing. According to the hospital, there were no serious consequences for the patients involved. However, night-time helicopter arrivals of patients have been suspended and their transport has had to be reorganised.
