Airspace around Dubai International Airport was closed briefly on Saturday, and 22 inbound flights were diverted, as a result of “unauthorized drone activity,” said Dubai Airports, the organization that owns and manages both of Dubai’s airports — Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central. DXB was closed from 1925 until 2045 local time.
“Safety is our top priority and Dubai Airports reminds all UAV [unmanned aerial vehicle] operators that any and all activities are not permitted unless authorised by regulatory authorities and are strictly prohibited in restricted areas included within 5 kilometres of any airport or landing area,” Dubai Airports said.
According to Gulf News, this is the third time this year that operations have been briefly suspended at DXB as a result of the intrusion of an unmanned aircraft. Airspace at Sharjah International Airport also was briefly closed Saturday as a result of the intrusion, Gulf News reported.
