Jersey Airport seeks UK counter-drone support after two nights of flight disruption

Jersey‘s Government has asked UK authorities and specialist agencies for help strengthening drone detection and counter-drone capabilities after unauthorised drone activity disrupted flights at Jersey Airport on two consecutive evenings.

The incidents on 30-31 October led to flight diversions and cancellations. Police launched an investigation. Airport authorities, emergency services and government officials have coordinated a response.

In an official update issued on 1 November, the Government of Jersey confirmed that it was discussing additional operational support with UK counterparts and taking measures to prevent further disruption.

Officials and operational partners met on Sunday to review their response and prepare for any further drone activity.

“The safety of passengers, aircrew and the public remains our overriding priority,” the government stated.

The police investigation is underway to find those responsible for operating the drones. 

“We urge Islanders to remain vigilant and ask anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact the States of Jersey Police. People should not approach anyone they believe may be operating a drone,” the government stated. 

Jersey Airport flights diverted following drone sightings

The first incident occurred on Friday evening, when States of Jersey Police received reports of multiple drones operating near the airport from around 8:20 pm until 10:30 pm.

Jersey Airport normally operates between 7 am and 9 pm during winter, although extensions can be authorised. The evening drone incidents affected flights approaching the end of the airport’s scheduled operating day, leaving airlines with limited time to recover their services.

Three inbound aircraft were initially diverted, although one later landed safely at around 11:45 pm. The airport remained open for its arrival.

A multi-agency search involving States of Jersey Police, Honorary Police, Channel Islands Air Search and Ports of Jersey personnel was launched, but no drone operators were identified.

Further drone activity on Saturday evening prevented four inbound flights from landing as scheduled.

In a statement to Sky News, Jersey Airport described the drone activity as “illegal and persistent.” The airport confirmed that airlines were making alternative travel arrangements for affected passengers.

Flights from London Heathrow and Southampton were among those cancelled. An inbound charter service from Madeira was diverted to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. 

The government said that medical passengers affected by the previous two evenings’ disruption were being prioritised on available services. No medical flights were scheduled for Sunday evening.

Jersey explores counter-drone technology

In a separate statement, Jersey’s Chief Minister, Senator Lyndon Farnham, condemned the incidents and confirmed that the government was examining options to improve airport security. The government has not said which counter-drone systems were being considered.

“We are also working closely with UK authorities and specialist agencies to explore additional operational support, enhanced detection capability and counter-drone technology,” he said. “Operating a drone close to an airport is not a prank or a harmless hobby. It puts public safety at risk, disrupts critical transport infrastructure and can have significant consequences for hundreds of travellers and businesses.”

Farnham thanked personnel from Ports of Jersey, air traffic control, police and emergency services for their response.

He said those responsible “should expect to face the full consequences of the law.” Farnham added that Jersey Airport remained safe.

“Our airport is a vital lifeline for the Island. We will not tolerate behaviour that jeopardises its safe operation or undermines public confidence in our transport infrastructure,” Farnham said.

The government said it would provide further updates as the investigation and discussions with UK authorities progress.