Public Concerns Over Recent Drone Sightings Prompt Temporary Flight Bans
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has expanded temporary restrictions on drone flights due to unusual activity in the northeastern United States. On Friday, the FAA announced new Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) banning drone operations over 30 areas in southern New York and Long Island. This follows earlier bans in 22 areas in New Jersey, including Elizabeth, Camden, and Jersey City.
“At the request of federal security partners, the FAA published 22 Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) prohibiting drone flights over critical New Jersey infrastructure,” the FAA told CNBC.
The new TFRs will be in effect until January 19, covering all five boroughs of New York City and parts of Long Island. New York Governor Kathy Hochul requested these restrictions. The initial TFRs in New Jersey, set to expire on January 17, have been expanded to include Evesham and Bedminster.
Drone Sightings Stir Public Debate
A recent increase in drone sightings has caused concern and speculation among residents and officials. Some sightings were near military installations, raising security questions. However, federal agencies assure the public that these sightings do not pose a national security risk.
President Biden addressed the issue, saying, “We’re following this closely, but so far, no sense of danger.” He added, “There’s a lot of drones authorized up there. I think one started it and they all—everybody wanted to get in the deal.”
Connecticut Representative Jim Himes clarified, “There is zero evidence of laws being broken” by the drones. He emphasized that most sightings involved lawful drone operations, noting, “Millions of unregistered drones are operating across the U.S., in addition to 800,000 registered drones that weigh more than half a pound.”
Federal Agencies Coordinate Response
The FAA, along with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Department of Defense (DoD), is investigating the reports. Officials have deployed advanced detection technology and trained visual observers to better understand the situation.
A joint statement from the agencies said, “We assess that the sightings to date include a combination of lawful commercial drones, hobbyist drones, and law enforcement drones, as well as manned fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and stars mistakenly reported as drones.”
No evidence of “anomalous activity” or foreign influence has been found. The statement added, “We have not identified anything anomalous and do not assess the activity to date to present a national security or public safety risk.”
Temporary Restrictions and Calls for Legislative Action
In addition to imposing TFRs, federal officials are urging Congress to act. “We urge Congress to enact counter-UAS legislation when it reconvenes that would extend and expand existing counter-drone authorities to identify and mitigate any threat that may emerge,” the agencies said.
While these restrictions address immediate safety concerns, officials emphasize that most drones sighted are operating lawfully. Increased collaboration between federal, state, and local authorities shows the government’s commitment to ensuring airspace safety as drone use continues to rise.
For now, the FAA’s TFRs and ongoing investigations reflect a proactive approach to managing airspace concerns while addressing public unease.
About TFRs and NOTAMs
The FAA maintains the safety and efficiency of our National Airspace System. Just like there are rules for cars on the road, there are rules for aircraft in the sky to ensure safety. In special circumstances, the FAA may temporarily restrict access to certain designated areas of our airspace, much like how a city or state may block off access to a street when necessary.
These airspace restrictions are called Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) and are communicated to pilots through Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs). TFRs restrict aircraft (including drones) from operating without permission in a certain area for a limited time. It is crucial to always check NOTAMs prior to your flight.
