[h=1]UAV activity disrupts Dubai Airport operations[/h]
Flight operations from Dubai International Airport were disrupted for nearly an hour Sept. 28 because of unauthorized unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), or drone, activity.
Airspace around the airport was closed from 0808 to 0835. Arrivals resumed at 0835 and restricted departures were allowed at 0840, before the airport returned to full operations at 0907.
Dubai International said the incident triggered a number of delays. This is not the first time the airport’s operations have been disrupted by UAV activity.
“Safety is our top priority and Dubai Airports reminds all UAV operators that any and all activities are not permitted unless authorized by regulatory authorities and are strictly prohibited in restricted areas, including within five kilometers of any airport or landing area,” the airports operator said.
United Arab Emirates (UAE) state Abu Dhabi has banned drone sales to the public because of the potential threat they pose to civil aviation.
Aviation authorities and pilots in several countries have expressed concern about the potential for collisions between UAVs and commercial aircraft, particularly during takeoff and landing.
Many states are working on new drone laws to protect safe operations.