Drones, both for commercial and recreational purposes, have seen a significant rise in usage, even with existing limitations on their operation and the locations in which they may be flown.
No-fly zones are strictly regulated around crucial places such as airports, military bases, nuclear facilities, iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, and sports arenas during events. Yet, there are instances where these regulations are ignored. Reports have documented drone sightings at airports, leading to temporary flight suspensions on several occasions.
Recently, there have been several reports of drones spotted flying at night over New Jersey, raising concerns among residents due to the uncertainty about the operators and their reasons for flying. In response, various local and state officials are advocating for tighter regulations governing drone usage.
Following reports of drone activity close to Morris County, New Jersey, last month, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposed temporary flight restrictions over a golf course in Bedminster, owned by president-elect Donald Trump, and over the Picatinny Arsenal Military Base. The FAA noted that these actions were taken upon requests from “federal security partners.”
The FAA is the primary body overseeing drone regulations, bolstered by Congressional mandates that outline specific requirements by law.
In 2018, the Preventing Emerging Threats Act was enacted, granting selected departments within Homeland Security and Justice the authority to counter threats posed by unmanned aircraft and ensure the protection of sensitive facilities.
New drones are required to be equipped with technology that enables law enforcement to identify the pilot; additionally, federal agencies have been authorized to detect and ground unmanned aircraft deemed hazardous. The legislation specifies places where these counter-drone measures can be implemented, such as during “national special security events” like presidential inaugurations and significant public gatherings.
What does it take to become a drone pilot? Aspiring pilots must be at least 16 years old, demonstrate English proficiency, pass an aeronautics test, and show that they do not have any mental condition that could compromise the safe operation of a small unmanned aircraft.
Drones are indeed permitted to operate at night, but the FAA enforces conditions on these flights. Most unmanned aircraft are prohibited from night flying unless they’ll be fitted with anti-collision lights that are visible for a minimum of 3 miles (4.8 kilometers).
Concerns about the safety of drones are palpable. In the last ten years, pilots have reported numerous near misses involving drones and airplanes, some requiring evasive maneuvers from aircraft to prevent collisions. Notably, drone activity congested flights at London’s Gatwick Airport during the busy Christmas season in 2018, as well as in May 2023. Law enforcement declined to consider shooting down the drones due to risks associated with stray bullets.
The evolution of drone technology has complicated the task for law enforcement when it comes to tracking unlawful drone operators, especially as larger, more powerful drones gain greater operational ranges.
As for potential regulatory changes, recent drone sightings have prompted some officials in New Jersey to advocate for stricter controls, causing concern within the drone industry. Scott Shtofman, government affairs director at the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International, remarked that increasing restrictions could hinder what is a flourishing economic sector in the United States.
“Any indiscriminate push for new regulations affecting currently lawful drone operations is something we would voice strong opposition against,” he asserted.
A company named AirSight, specializing in software designed to counter drone threats, noted that law has been enacted in over 20 states to prevent privacy intrusions by drones, particularly focusing on instances of Peeping Toms.
Will Austin, president of Warren County Community College in New Jersey and the founder of its drone program, emphasized the importance of users addressing public worries surrounding drone operations. He believes that operators should clarify the purpose of their flights to alleviate concerns about safety and privacy.
“It’s a new technology that isn’t fully understood, which often stirs anxiety in many individuals,” Austin explained. “We aim to be professionals in aviation and help diminish those fears.”