The Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) has issued a ban on the flying of drones in areas across New Jersey and New York. The ban is initially in force for a month.
Why has the FAA acted?
The FAA has put the ban in place following sightings of large aerial drones throughout central and northern New Jersey. The drones have been seen across the area since mid-November. Residents have posted photos and videos on social media. Understandably, the public has been concerned and contacted local and state officials for reassurance. A couple of weeks ago, several senators wrote to the FAA and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) requesting a briefing.
What does the ban mean?
The FAA’s ban on operating drones covers dozens of areas across New Jersey and New York. It will be in force until January 17th in New Jersey and January 18th in New York. The Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for each area states that no uncrewed aircraft systems can operate within a nautical mile of the airspace specified. This also applies to the airspace from the ground up to 400 feet. Under FAA rules, recreational drones are permitted to fly up to 400 feet. In addition, the NOTAM warns that the government may use “deadly force” against the drones if deemed to pose an “imminent security threat.”
What areas are covered by the ban?
In New Jersey, the areas covered by the FAA ban are: Hamilton, Bridgewater, Cedar Grove, North Brunswick, Metuchen, Evesham, Camden, Gloucester City, Westampton, South Brunswick, Edison, Branchburg, Sewaren, Jersey City, Harrison, Elizabeth, Bayonne, Winslow, Burlington, Clifton, Hancocks Bridge and Kearny. For New York, the ban applies to numerous locations including around LaGuardia Airport, many cities on Long Island, and the boroughs of Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx.
What has the DHS said?
A DHS spokesperson stated, “We continue to assess there is no public safety threat relating to the reported drone sightings. In coordination with the FAA and our critical infrastructure partners who requested temporary flight restrictions over their facilities, out of an abundance of caution, the FAA has issued temporary flight restrictions over some critical infrastructure facilities in New Jersey.”
What we think
Although the DHS and FAA haven’t identified a specific threat from the drones, they’re understandably cautious. Given the many conflicts around the world and the risks from global terrorism, the flight bans seem reasonable. Anyone tempted to fly their drones in contravention of the bans should be warned. The NOTAM states that anyone breaching the ban with their drones could be “intercepted, detained, and interviewed by the law enforcement/security personnel.” In addition, the FAA can issue criminal charges and civil penalties. It can also suspend or revoke your operator’s certificate.
