The runway at Gatwick airport has been closed for the second time in hours following repeated reports of drones flying nearby, causing travel chaos for passengers as the Christmas getaway begins, independent.co.uk reported.
Flights in and out of the airport were suspended at about 9pm on Wednesday after two drones were located near the airfield.
Gatwick announced that the runway had reopened at about 3am on Thursday, but only 45 minutes later it was shut again following further sightings. The drones were seen in the air again at 7am.
IATA statement on drone disruption
IATA issued the following statement regarding the Gatwick incident: “Our sympathies go out to all the people whose Christmas travel plans have been disrupted by the illegal and dangerous drone operations at London Gatwick airport. Safety is the number one priority of the air transport industry and the commendable patience of passengers is appreciated while the authorities ensure that there is no threat from drone activity to civil aircraft.
We hope the authorities find the operators of these drones and the full applicable legal action is taken to deter future incidents of this kind. Additionally, we look forward to accelerating the cooperation between the industry, drone manufacturers and governments to reduce the risks of rogue drone operations. Such measures could include greater education and awareness for drone operators, a registry of drones above a certain level of capability, enhanced fines and prison sentences for offenders, and technological solutions to prevent drones entering restricted airspace.”
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Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons License: CC-BY-SA Copyright: Martin Roell
