A BRIT holiday hotspot has shut down a major airport after mysterious drones were spotted hovering near the runway.
Police rushed to the scene and UK-bound flights were delayed following the Monday night chaos at Alicante-Elche Airport in eastern Spain.
The ordeal sparked chaos amid confused passengers who were told their flights had been delayed.
Nine planes were diverted after being alerted of the suspicious drone sightings, authorities said.
Planes are currently being barred from departing or arriving.
Local aviation authorities said on social media: “Due to the presence of a drone in the vicinity of Alicante Elche Miguel Hernández Airport, flight diversions are taking place.”
They added: “We are working with law enforcement agencies to return operations to normal as quickly as possible.
“Check your flight status with your airline.”
