Dubai International Airport in the UAE was forced to halt operations on the morning of 15 February after suspected drone activity was reported near the airport.
The airport said in a statement that flights were halted between 10:13am and 10:45am as a precautionary measure to safeguard travellers.
Go deeper with GlobalData
A Dubai Airports spokesperson said: “Dubai Airports has worked closely with the appropriate authorities to ensure that the safety of airport operations is maintained at all times and to minimise any inconvenience to our customers.”
Dubai Airport has previously suspend operations due to drone sightings. In 2015, the airport halted operations for around 55 minutes due to illegal drone flight, while the airport encountered three more incidents of drone flights in 2016.
In the last few months, drone sightings in the UK have disrupted operations at large airports.
London’s Gatwick Airport closed for approximately 36 hours in December 2018 due to threats posed by illegal drones flying near its runway. It caused widespread disruption and led to the cancellation of approximately 1,000 flights.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataHeathrow Airport also had to temporarily halt all departing flights in January after a drone was spotted flying near the airfield.
Both Heathrow and Gatwick airports have subsequently announced that they will acquire military-grade anti-drone equipment to deal with illegal drone flights near airfields.
