Army to assist in Gatwick drone chaos

The United Kingdom government has deployed armed forces to Gatwick Airport to assist with major transport disruption caused by unmanned drones sighted over airport runways.

Thousands of passengers remain stranded and more than 750 flights have been cancelled since drones spotted on Wednesday night caused the halting of air traffic.

UK Defense Secretary Gavin Williamson said that the army has been deployed to assist at the request of local police.

"Sussex police have requested some support from the armed forces and we will be deploying the armed forces to help deal with the situation at Gatwick Airport," he told members of the media.

He declined to provide further detail as to what help the military will provide. Police earlier ruled out shooting the drones down for fear that stray bullets may strike people and property, however snipers have been brought onsite. The police have described the event as a deliberate attempt to disrupt flights.

European air safety organization Eurocontrol said that Gatwick Airport will remain closed until at least 8:00 pm.

Prime Minister Theresa May confirmed that the government has coordinated with airport officials to try and resolve the transport chaos.

"I feel for all those passengers whose travel plans have been disrupted by this drone activity and the action that has had to be taken in response to it," she said. "At this particular time of year this is particularly difficult for people."

She added: "We have already passed legislation in relation to the use of drones. As it has been made clear, the activity we have seen is illegal and those who are caught endangering aircraft can face up to five years in prison."

In the UK it is illegal to fly drones within 1 kilometer of an airport boundary.

"We will continue to work with the Gatwick authorities in order to bring this to a close such that people will be able to get on to the travel that they were expecting over the Christmas," May said.