The number of illegal migrants entering Germany by plane has risen sharply, according to data by the federal police.
Over the past twelve months, authorities detected 12,858 illegal air travellers—most of them departed from within the Schengen Area, considered safe third countries under EU regulations.
In May alone, at least 977 migrants were identified arriving by plane, representing over 20% of the 4,789 total illegal border crossings detected that month.
Experts warn that the true figure is likely higher since travellers from Schengen countries typically don’t need to present ID when flying, and controls are rarely applied post-arrival.
