Federal investigations reveal most recent Northeast drone sightings are actually manned aircraft, posing no national security threat. Of 5,000 reports, less than 100 warranted investigation, with all fixed-wing sightings identified as manned aircraft. Officials continue investigating remaining cases, acknowledging some overreaction while some temporary flight restrictions remain in place.
An FBI official briefed reporters, explaining the agency is collaborating with 50 local, state, and federal partners to investigate the increased reports. Of over 5,000 reported sightings, less than 100 warranted further investigation. All large, fixed-wing sightings investigated so far have been identified as manned aircraft.
“The combination of efforts so far … to include technical equipment, tip line information and noted consults has … not found any evidence to support large-scale (unmanned aerial systems) activities,” the official said, as quoted by Reuters, noting many sightings occurred along established flight paths. Officials continue to investigate remaining cases using interviews, radar analysis, and intelligence.
“We can’t ignore the sightings that have been there,” the official added. “We’re doing our best to find the origin of those drone activities, but I think there has been a slight over-reaction.”
The Department of Homeland security in a joint statement with the FBI have also took a similar stance. “Historically, we have experienced cases of mistaken identity, where reported drones are, in fact, manned aircraft or facilities,” the agencies said.
Last week, Biden’s national security spokesperson John F Kirby also indicated that their investigation revealed no unlawful actions. “To the contrary, upon review of available imagery, it appears that many of the reported sightings are actually manned aircraft that are being operated lawfully,” Kirby had said on Thursday.
Reports began in mid-November in New Jersey and spread to Maryland, Massachusetts, and other states. President Biden is receiving regular updates on the situation. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey acknowledged awareness of the sightings and is monitoring the situation. New York Governor Kathy Hochul called for increased federal law enforcement after a local airport briefly closed Friday due to drone activity.
A Federal Aviation Administration official said a temporary drone ban over Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey, expiring December 26, could become permanent. A military official confirmed drone sightings over Picatinny and another naval weapons station but said there was no indication of foreign involvement or malicious intent. Another temporary ban is in effect over Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey, expiring December 20, with possible extension.
