Drone Sightings Surge in Northeast as FAA Ban Ends
Mysterious drone sightings are on the rise in the Northeast, marking a strange surge following the lifting of temporary flight restrictions by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) after thousands of reported drone sightings late last year. The sightings in November and December across New York, New Jersey, and neighboring states resulted in airport closures, arrests, and calls for increased oversight from lawmakers and the FAA.
Slowdown of sightings was observed after the FAA imposed temporary flight restrictions on drone flights in New Jersey and New York in December, which were lifted in some areas on Jan. 19. However, since the restrictions were lifted, an influx of drone sightings reports from Connecticut to New Jersey has been reported.
Enigma Labs, a research company specializing in unidentified phenomena, has documented 650 sightings nationwide since November, with a concentration of reports in the Northeast. Despite a decline in report numbers immediately after the ban, Enigma received 49 reports in New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, with 14 reported after the flight bans expired. Christine Kim, a spokesperson for Enigma, highlighted the persistence of sightings, stating, “You look at the reports that people are submitting. They’re saying, you know, ‘I’m still seeing them, ban or no ban, and they’re happening.’”
Unusual Sightings and Political Response
Videos shared by Enigma Labs show lines of flashing red lights in the night sky, with multiple drones seen in close proximity over neighborhoods. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York acknowledged the return of drone sightings at an unrelated press conference, stating, “We have now seen new drone sightings. We’re going to have to look into it.” President Donald Trump also addressed the issue on his return to the White House, expressing a desire to investigate further.
The FAA has not officially confirmed the recent sightings but emphasized its role in ensuring the safe operation of drones within the National Airspace System. The FBI, in collaboration with the FAA and the Department of Homeland Security, received over 5,000 drone sighting tips in the weeks preceding the joint statement on Dec. 16. While no anomalies or security risks were identified, the agencies noted a mix of lawful commercial drones, hobbyist drones, and law enforcement drones, as well as misidentified aircraft.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has called for legislation to regulate drone activity, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and resources to manage evolving drone technology. As the situation unfolds, Congress is urged to pass legislation to empower states and local law enforcement in addressing the drone sightings phenomenon.
