Simon Calder on drone havoc: 'Deeply troubling that somebody thought this would be a good idea'

Monday, 2 November 2026 at 12:07

Travel journalist Simon Calder has told Channel 103 the illegal use of drones in Jersey airspace over the weekend is 'absolutely dreadful'.

On both Friday and Saturday nights, drones being flown in Jersey airspace without permission caused major disruption to flights, with some passengers still stranded.

Flights affected by drones for second night running - Channel 103

Channel 103 has spoken to travel expert and journalist Simon Calder:

"Drones and planes do not mix; they should not be anywhere in the same vicinity, and it's deeply troubling that somebody thought this would be a good idea.

"Of course, passenger safety was never compromised, but the very fact that people see fit to operate drones near the airport, which is absolutely crucial infrastructure for the island, is extremely concerning."

Police investigations are ongoing, and Chief Minister, Senator Lyndon Farnham, said every available avenue is being pursued to identify those responsible.

He said they should expect to face the full consequences of the law.

Simon agrees that if they're found, the punishment should be severe:

"There are severe penalties for using drones near an airport, and I have to say that making an example of someone could be a good way to reduce the possible risk of a repeat."

He says it reminds him of the drone incident at Gatwick Airport just before Christmas in 2018:

"I know there were many people from the island affected because Gatwick closed; that was due to a whole sequence of drones being sighted, but we never actually found out who was responsible, or indeed if there were any drones there.

"But that gives you some idea of the sensitivity."

Jersey' authorities have said they are working with UK and specialist agencies to find the culprits, and to strengthen the islands' capability to prevent it happening again.

Simon says anyone whose journeys were disrupted will not be eligible for compensation, as it is beyond the airlines' responsibility.