Islanders Demand Tougher Punishments After Illegal Drones Disrupt Jersey Flights

Islanders have called for tougher penalties against illegal drone operators after activity near Jersey Airport caused flight cancellations and diversions on two consecutive evenings.

The disruption affected passengers travelling to and from the island, with some flights diverted to other airports, including Paris. Residents have warned that stronger deterrents are needed to prevent further incidents and avoid a potentially serious accident.

Stuart Abraham said penalties should be severe enough to discourage anyone from flying drones near the airport illegally. Other islanders, including Jonathan Hudson and Sue Dawes, expressed concern about the disruption and the potential danger to aircraft and passengers.

States of Jersey Police confirmed the drones had been reported in active flight paths and urged anyone with information to come forward.

Flying a drone within Jersey Airport's restricted airspace without permission from Air Traffic Control is illegal. Under the Air Navigation (Jersey) Law 2014, anyone endangering an aircraft could face a fine or up to five years in prison.

Chief Minister Senator Lyndon Farnham condemned the incidents, warning that flying drones near an airport was not a harmless hobby but a serious threat to public safety and essential transport services.

Authorities say they are treating the incidents with the utmost seriousness as concerns grow over the possibility of further disruption.