Gatwick flights forced to divert after reported drone activity

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Incoming flights were suspended at Gatwick Airport for nearly an hour after reports of a drone near the airfield. Twelve inbound aircraft were diverted to other airports during the investigation, however we expect many of these to return to London Gatwick today Gatwick spokesman A Gatwick spokesman was unable to say whether a drone had been discovered after the latest reported sighting. The spokesman said: “Passenger safety is the airport’s absolute priority and – following established procedures – operations at London Gatwick were suspended temporarily at 1344, while investigations into the sighting of a suspected drone close to the airfield took place. Twelve inbound aircraft were diverted to other airports during the investigation, however we expect many of these to return to London Gatwick today.” British Airways said one of its flights was affected, with it landing at Stansted before refuelling and returning to Gatwick.