Drone Disruption Sparks Anger as Jersey Airport Flights Are Cancelled Again

Passengers and local businesses have expressed frustration after suspected unauthorised drone activity caused further flight disruption at Jersey Airport for a second consecutive evening.

The airport confirmed on Saturday night that inbound flights had been affected by drones operating near the airfield. Police are investigating and have appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

The incidents caused significant inconvenience for travellers, with some flights cancelled or diverted. Jersey RFC was among those affected, with its team stranded in Southampton after its flight home was cancelled. The club said the disruption would cost thousands of pounds in additional travel and accommodation expenses.

Hotel director Iselin Jones also faced disruption when her flight from Madeira was diverted to Paris after being unable to land in Jersey.

Passengers waiting for arriving relatives voiced their anger, calling for stronger regulation and action against those responsible.

Police Inspector Rob McCallum said two or three drones were believed to have entered restricted airspace on Saturday evening, although the incidents were not thought to be terror-related.

Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham condemned the activity, warning that flying drones near an airport was neither harmless nor a prank. He said the government was working with UK authorities to explore improved detection systems and counter-drone technology.

Airline Loganair confirmed it had provided accommodation for affected passengers and arranged additional aircraft to help protect early morning services.

The disruption has also affected local businesses, including taxi drivers, who say uncertainty surrounding flight arrivals has made it difficult to plan their work.

Authorities have urged those responsible to recognise the serious consequences of their actions, as efforts continue to prevent further disruption at the island's airport.