The couple questioned by police over the drone disruption at Gatwick Airport have said they feel “completely violated” by the experience and are receiving medical care.
Paul Gait and Elaine Kirk were arrested and released without charge after two nights in custody.
Speaking outside their home in Crawley, West Sussex, an emotional Gait said: “As you can probably imagine we are feeling completely violated.
“Our home has been searched and our privacy and identity completely exposed.
“Our names, photos and other personal information have been broadcast throughout the world.”
Gait added that the couple are “deeply distressed”.
“We are deeply distressed, as our family and friends, and we are currently receiving medical care.
“The way we were initially perceived was disgusting, although those that knew us didn’t doubt us for a second.
“Post release without charge or further action, we are totally overwhelmed by the support we have received from the people from all over the world and we would like to thank every single one that has done that.
“We would ask that the press please respect our privacy and leave us to try and get through Christmas as best we can.”
Gait, flanked by Kirk and a few supporters, added that the pair would be making no further comment at this time.
Their arrest followed chaos at Gatwick airport following reported drone activity over the airfield which left flights grounded and more than 140,000 passengers affected.
More than 1,000 flights were cancelled or delayed from Wednesday night to Friday, but the mystery surrounding the activity continues as a detective suggested on Saturday that there was a “possibility” there may not have been a drone to begin with.
A government source said police have since accepted that there had been “poor communications” on the issue, the Press Association reported.
Police are working with witnesses and have taken dozens of statements to piece together what happened.
A £60,000 reward has been offered by Gatwick Airport, Crimestoppers and charity chairman Lord Ashcroft in a bid to catch the perpetrators.