Dubai airport (DXB) disrupted due to drone!
Dubai airport was shut down between 10:13 am and 10:45 am local time today due to suspected drone activity.
In the last 2 months, this is the fourth instance of drones disrupting a major commercial airport (Gatwick, Newark and Heathrow). Fortunately, it seems that in this particular instance, it was resolved quickly.
UAE has one of the strictest regulations and guidelines regarding drones. Specifically, it states that
- All drones must be registered with General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA)
- A no-objection certificate is needed from Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) to fly a drone in Dubai
- Flying drones near airports or residential areas is forbidden
- There are defined areas where drones may be operated
I do not know if these incidents are isolated or have a pattern. Need of the hour is to deal with this issue strictly. A lot of passengers are inconvenienced by this. The penalty and punishment should in no way be lesser than a hoax call.
Were you affected by the shutdown? What do you feel about regulating drones and punishment for miscreants?
(Picture for representational purposes only)
