But how dangerous are they to aircraft and why do airports shut down? Here's what we know.
How dangerous are drones to aircraft?
Anything in the air close to the aircraft poses a hazard risk.
Pilots have called for more testing on the potential impact of a drone on an engine but this would be expensive, reported The Guardian.
Drones vary in sizes and weight, and many of them are very dangerous if they are around planes.
As of July 30 2018, new laws came into play which ban all drones from flying above 400ft and within 0.6 miles of airport boundaries.
Drone users who flout the height and airport boundary restrictions or fly negligently could face an unlimited fine, up to five years in prison, or both.
In addition to the physical collision risks drones pose to an aircraft, another big risk is from radio frequency interference, resulting in loss of control and worst of all, death.
Why do airports shut down?
When there is a risk of drones being close to aircraft, airports shut down and flights become either delayed or cancelled.
Airlines' global association, IATA, warns of "an exponential increase in reports of RPA operating dangerously close to manned aircraft and airports."
They are also aware of the financial impact of disruption caused by drones flying close to airports: the diversions and delays at Gatwick cost tens of thousands of pounds.
Thousands of passengers whose flights have been delayed or cancelled after two illegal drones flew onto the runway at Gatwick airport could get their money back or a new flight.
Two thousand people were left grounded last night after their flights were cancelled as a result of the security breach – just days before Christmas.
But the chaos is set to continue. Gatwick airport tweeted this morning: "Flights to and from Gatwick remain suspended, due to drone activity.
"Please do not travel to the airport without checking with your airline first. We 're sorry for the inconvenience today, but the safety of our passengers and staff is our no.1 priority."
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