Drone Disruption at Palma Airport Causes Chaos for British Tourists; Authorities Investigate Security Breach

October 19, 2025
Drone Disruption at Palma Airport Causes Chaos for British Tourists; Authorities Investigate Security Breach
  • These measures include radar and security protocols aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.

  • A drone sighting at Palma de Mallorca Airport around 7 PM led to a temporary suspension of all flight operations for approximately 35 minutes, causing delays and diversions of nearly a dozen flights.

  • The incident prompted a halt in landings and take-offs, but operations resumed shortly before 8 PM, with no reported safety issues.

  • The disruption stranded dozens of British tourists and expats, many of whom expressed frustration over poor communication and assistance during the incident.

  • Spanish authorities have launched an investigation to identify the drone operator and determine how it entered restricted airspace, potentially involving surveillance and signal tracking.

  • Spanish law prohibits drones within a 5-kilometre radius of airports without prior authorization, with violations subject to fines or criminal charges.

  • The increasing frequency of drone sightings has prompted the German government to seek greater authority for police to shoot down drones.

  • The EU is planning a European drone defense system to improve security and counter threats posed by unmanned aerial vehicles, with European authorities reviewing detection and counter-drone measures.

  • Palma de Mallorca Airport is a major hub for UK and European travelers, serving tens of thousands of passengers daily, including many British holidaymakers.

  • Passengers were advised to check with airlines for updates following the incident, which was resolved without any safety issues.

  • The incident highlights the growing challenge of drone security near sensitive airspace, prompting calls for stricter regulations and enhanced detection systems.

Summary based on 10 sources


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Sources


Flights diverted from Palma De Mallorca Airport after drone spotted


Drone grounds flights leaving expats stranded in Mallorca

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