THE search for mystery drone flyers who caused two days of travel chaos at the end of the half-term week continued last night, as the government confirmed “additional measures” have been put in place to prevent further potential disruption.
A major investigation has been launched to identify the culprit or culprits. Under the Air Navigation (Jersey) Law, anyone deemed to have recklessly or negligently acted in a manner likely to endanger an aircraft could face up to five years in prison.
This afternoon, the government issued a further statement to confirm “additional measures” had been put in place, but did not give any further details due to “operational reasons”.
The saga began on Friday evening when drone activity near Jersey Airport stopped four planes from landing: one was cancelled before departure and three were diverted back to the mainland.
Despite an urgent police appeal being issued on Saturday morning, further disruption took place that evening, with a further five flights disrupted – including a flight from Funchal being diverted to Paris.
A government spokesperson said: “The police investigation into the recent drone activity around Jersey Airport remains ongoing.
“The government, police, Ports of Jersey and other partners remain alert and prepared to respond to any further reports of drone activity.
“Additional measures are in place and for operational reasons, we cannot provide further details at this point. Our priority remains public safety, minimising disruption to Islanders and identifying those responsible.
“As we approach this evening, we are asking Islanders to remain vigilant and report sightings to the States of Jersey Police immediately.”
The spokesperson added that the government and its partners are “actively reviewing” what can be done to reduce the threat to Jersey going forward.
Islanders who spot people or vehicles in “unusual” or “out-of-place” locations or see drones taking off or landing are asked to inform the police immediately.
Anyone with dashcam, CCTV, doorbell or mobile phone footage, or information about somebody previously operating a drone that may assist enquiries, is also urged to contact police. Islanders are reminded not to personally approach anybody operating a drone.
Anyone with information that could help identify those responsible is asked to call 612612 and quote M07922/2026. Information can also be shared anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
