Daijiworld Media Network - Sharjah (SHP)
Sharjah, Nov 29: Six Air Arabia flights were diverted away from the Sharjah International Airport to Ras Al Khaimah on Thursday, November 28, due to suspected drone activity in the area.
As per the airport authorities, the diversion took place 7 am to 9 am. However, confirmation on whether the diversions were due to the drone activity was never done.
Soon an Air Arabia spokesperson released a statement that the flights have resumed their services.
The situation came to light after an Air Arabia passenger took to Twitter announcing the diversion. @Beltrew tweeted, "Hearing there is suspected drone activity over #Sharjah airport? Does anyone have more info? Just had to land at Ras Al Khaimah instead of Sharjah airport which is closed apparently due to drones flying above it... crew saying all planes have been diverted for now. #UAE"
An unauthorized drone activity can lead to fines amounting to Dh 20,000 as they cannot be flown within 5kms of an airport.