British government tightens up anti-drone measures

The British government is to test anti-drone technology in a bid to avoid any repeat of the chaotic scenes which bought London's Gatwick Airport to a standstill just before Christmas because of reported drone activity.

Around 1,000 flights were cancelled and 140,000 passengers affected at one of the busiest times of the year after reported sightings around London's second-largest airport.

Sussex police questioned two people who were later released without charge, since when no arrests have been made, but the force says it is investigating testimony from 115 witnesses.

In the aftermath of the Gatwick incident, Transport Minister Chris Grayling held talks with senior aviation and security officials to discuss strategy for any future incidents and next week a junior transport minister will meet Britain's major airport bosses to hear their ideas.

The Huffington Post claims technology being introduced would be capable of jamming or even shooting down drones.

In recent years, drones have become a major concern for British airports. In 2014, six incidents were reported but by 2017, that figure had risen to 2017.

The current drone exclusion zone around airports could be extended to around 5 kilometers, or further at the end of runways, a move which was welcomed by Balpa, the pilots' union, as "a win for flight safety".

New fixed penalties for minor offences, such as failing to supply valid registration, or not landing a drone when requested to do so by a police officer, could also be introduced. Laws on compulsory registration and an online safety test will not take effect until November 2019.

In the meantime, Heathrow and Gatwick airports are taking their own measures. Gatwick has already spent around 5 million pounds ($6.4) on anti-drone technology, and a spokeswoman for Heathrow said: "The safety of our passengers and colleagues remains our top priority. Working closely with relevant authorities including the Met police, we are constantly looking at the best technologies that help remove the threat of drones."

Aviation Minister Liz Sugg said it was important to strike a balance between the benefits of drone technology and the challenges it presents.

"Drones have the potential to bring significant benefits …but with the speed of technological advancement comes risk, and safety and security must be our top priorities," she said.

"That's why we are giving the police powers to deal with those using drones irresponsibly... these will help ensure the potential of this technology is harnessed in a responsible and safe way."