FAA Imposes Temporary Drone Flight Restrictions Over 20 New Jersey Locations Amid Mysterious Sightings

Dec 19, 2024, 04:25 PM

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has imposed temporary flight restrictions on drones over more than 20 locations in New Jersey, effective until January 17, in response to numerous reports of mysterious drone sightings across the state and other parts of the East Coast. These restrictions, which include areas around critical infrastructure such as power substations, ports, military installations, and airports, were enacted following requests from federal partners concerned with security. Despite the heightened measures, federal authorities, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), have stated that there is no identified public safety or national security threat associated with these drone sightings. The sightings, which began in mid-November, have been reported in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Ohio, and other states, prompting investigations by the FBI and other agencies. The drones have been observed near sensitive locations, including military bases and infrastructure, leading to speculation about their purpose and origin. The FAA's action comes as part of a broader effort to address public concerns and ensure safety, though the agency has also noted an increase in laser strikes against aircraft in New Jersey, which it attributes to the heightened public interest in the drone sightings. In New Jersey, laser strikes are up 269% over the same period last year.