Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced that the Trump administration is committed to "radical transparency" regarding drone detection testing in New Jersey. This announcement comes amid ongoing concerns about drone activity in the skies above the state.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will conduct drone detection tests in Cape May, New Jersey, from April 14 to April 25. During this period, the FAA plans to operate several large drones alongside over 100 commercial drones. The tests will occur over water and near the Cape May Ferry Terminal on weekdays during the daytime. The FAA has advised the public to refrain from flying recreational drones in the area during this time.
Duffy emphasized the importance of these tests, stating they aim to ensure proper detection of drones in airspace and prevent potential interference with aircraft systems. This initiative follows a series of drone sightings that raised concerns among the public last year. A joint statement from the Department of Homeland Security, FBI, FAA, and Department of Defense clarified that many of these sightings were attributed to lawful commercial and hobbyist drones, as well as misidentified aircraft and even stars.
The FAA has been testing drone detection technologies at airports for several years and is now expanding its efforts to off-airport locations. These tests will help assess how effective the technologies are and whether they could interfere with aircraft operations.
The discussions around drone testing come at a time when the administration is contrasting its approach with that of the Biden administration, which Duffy referred to as a "drone fiasco." As the testing approaches, the FAA and the administration hope to reassure the public about air safety and the management of drone activities.