FAA Enacts Drone Flight Restrictions Over Key Sites in New Jersey

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced significant restrictions on drone activity over critical infrastructure in New Jersey, heightening concerns about airspace security in the wake of unexplained drone sightings that have unnerved residents.

The FAA imposed 22 Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) prohibiting drone operations from ground level up to 400 feet above ground the maximum altitude allowed for civilian drones. The restrictions specifically target airspace over several key facilities, including the Cedar Grove Switching Station, Athenia Switching Station, and the PSE&G Kearny Switching Station.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) clarified the reasoning behind these measures, citing precautionary efforts to safeguard critical sites. “Out of an abundance of caution...the FAA has issued temporary flight restrictions over some critical infrastructure facilities in New Jersey,” a DHS statement read.

The bans apply solely to drones, excluding other aircraft, and come as the federal government seeks to address public anxiety following reports of late-night drone sightings across the state. While the phenomenon has spurred rampant speculation online, federal authorities have assured the public that these occurrences are not indicative of a national security threat.

After a detailed investigation, federal law enforcement and the military determined that the sightings are likely a mix of hobbyist drones, commercial devices, and even misidentified stars or aircraft. A joint statement emphasized that these incidents do not pose a safety risk to civilian airspace. However, authorities are taking steps to prevent any potential threats in the future.

Key findings from their investigation include:

• 5,000 tips received by the FBI from the public.

• Over 100 leads actively investigated.

• No evidence suggesting anomalous or nefarious activity.

The Department of Defense (DoD) noted that while unauthorized drone activity near military installations is not new, safeguarding restricted airspace remains a high priority. Local military commanders are implementing enhanced detection and mitigation measures in coordination with law enforcement.

The FAA and other agencies are urging Congress to expand counter-drone legislation to enable quicker response times to unauthorized drone activity. Advanced detection technology is already aiding investigations, but officials argue broader legal authority is needed to mitigate future threats.

Recent drone restrictions over Trump’s Bedminster golf course and the Picatinny Arsenal an essential U.S. military research facility highlight the growing focus on drone-related security concerns.

While federal authorities maintain that the drone sightings do not currently pose a significant risk, the new restrictions underline the importance of staying vigilant about protecting critical infrastructure.

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