The New Jersey area drone saga has taken a new twist as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued Temporary Flight Restrictions for uncrewed aerial systems over key infrastructure areas, which end mid-late January, with the longest TFR, over the President-elect’s golf course, lasting until January 31.
While a joint agency statement issued on December 16 noted that “no anomalous activity” has been detected, the remaining uncertainties have prompted the FAA to impose the TFR, not least to ensure the continued operation of flights to and from the region’s airports at one of the busiest times of the year. In addition to the presence of the drones themselves, the FAA has also noted that as the news has spread, people have been directing laser pointers at drones, which can cause significant disturbance to pilots flying manned aircraft.
The TFR covers numerous locations in New Jersey and New York State, including over critical infrastructure, and the FAA said it has been put in place at the request of federal security partners. Exceptions to the TFR include law enforcement and some commercial use and waivers may be applied for.
Drones found to be violating the TFR can be taken down if it is deemed that they pose a security threat. The pilots risk police detention.
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