Homeland security chief clains new jersey drone sightings normal, linked to 2023 nighttime drone flight ban

Homeland Security Chief Clains New Jersey Drone Sightings Normal, Linked to 2023 Nighttime Drone Flight Ban

by
December 15, 2024
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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas addressed growing public concern over increased drone activity at night, linking the rise to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rule change 15 months ago that permitted drones to fly after dark.

“In September of 2023, the Federal Aviation Administration, the FAA, changed the rules so that drones could fly at night,” Mayorkas said, explaining the spike in drone sightings, particularly during the hours from dusk to dawn.

Mayorkas assured the public that federal authorities are “on it,” working in close coordination with state and local officials to address the situation. However, he emphasized that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) lacks the necessary authority to fully regulate drone use.

“It is critical, as we all have said for a number of years, that we need from Congress, additional authorities to address the drone situation,” Mayorkas said, urging lawmakers to provide the federal government with expanded regulatory powers.

The FAA’s 2023 rule change allowed drones to fly at night as long as they are equipped with anti-collision lighting, a move that experts said would expand the commercial use of drones but has also sparked concerns over privacy, safety, and security.

Officials continue to monitor the increase in drone activity as they push for legislative solutions to bolster oversight.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

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