The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has reported that an "unauthorised drone-flying" over Changi Airport had caused 37 flight disruptions over the past two days. One arrival flight had to be diverted to Kuala Lumpur.
Changi Airport was forced to shut down one of the two runways at Changi Airport for a short period of time between 11pm on Tuesday and 9am on Wednesday to ensure the safety of aircraft operations and passengers.
The culprit is still unknown and investigations are ongoing.
"The authorities take a serious view of errant operations of unmanned aircraft which may pose threats to aviation or endanger the personal safety of others, and will not hesitate to take enforcement action against those who contravene regulations," said the CAAS.
Under the Unmanned Aircraft (Public Safety and Security) Act, the flying of drones within 5 km of airports or military bases, or at altitudes above 200ft (61m), without a permit, is an offence. Those found guilty of violating these offences can face a fine of up to S$20,000 or jail time for 12 months, or even both.
In December last year, unauthorised drone activity disrupted flights at London's Gatwick Airport for three days, affecting about 140,000 passengers and 1,000 flights.
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