Passengers are experiencing disruptions at an airport popular among British tourists due to the presence of drones in the vicinity. Alicante-Elche Airport in eastern Spain had to divert planes as authorities investigate the drone sightings. Nine flights, including Ryanair services from London, Manchester, Newcastle, Durham, and Frankfurt, were redirected to alternate airports until 11 pm local time, such as Valencia, Murcia, and Palma de Majorca.
Law enforcement dispatched a specialized aerial unit to locate the drones believed to be in the Torrellano area. While the situation remains under investigation, the airport spokesperson mentioned a need to ensure the safety of operations before resuming services.
After nearly two hours of closure, the airport announced the resumption of operations with the departure of the first plane shortly before 11 pm. However, passengers should expect delays due to the earlier airport closure. A previous statement from Aena confirmed flight diversions and reassured passengers that efforts are ongoing to normalize operations promptly.
This incident follows a similar disruption earlier this month at Majorca Airport, where flights were halted due to a drone sighting, forcing planes to divert to other Spanish airports. Reports indicate that air crew on multiple flights witnessed the drones, prompting emergency measures. Instances of drone-related disruptions at European airports have been reported, with some allegations linking such interference to Russia.
On a Ryanair flight from Madrid to Palma, passengers were diverted to Ibiza after the reported drone sighting during landing. One passenger shared concerns about refueling stops and uncertainties regarding the resumption of their journey.