NYC Drone Scare: FAA Grounds Flights Over NJ & NY!

The FAA has issued temporary drone flight restrictions over parts of New Jersey and New York, impacting dozens of locations, including areas near LaGuardia Airport and several New York City boroughs. These restrictions, implemented due to numerous unexplained drone sightings since mid-November, will last until mid-January.

<img src="https://i.abcnewsfe.com/a/e7d0054f-6980-4c7a-a360-2d0bdc1f801b/ABC_NJDroneNoFlyMap_v04_DP_1734623709160_hpEmbed_1x1.jpg" alt="Map of New Jersey flight restrictions">

New Jersey Restrictions

The FAA cites "special security reasons" for grounding drones in numerous New Jersey cities including Hamilton, Bridgewater, and Jersey City. Authorities emphasize that while the restrictions are a precautionary measure, no public safety threat has been confirmed.

<img src="https://i.abcnewsfe.com/a/1fcfba85-ad20-45f5-9364-365c3085e502/NJ-drones-DB-241216_1734351348948_hpMain.jpg" alt="Suspected drones over New Jersey">

New York Restrictions

Following suit, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced similar restrictions over critical infrastructure sites across the state. Again, officials stress that this is a precautionary measure, with no confirmed threats. Areas affected include parts of Long Island, Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx.

<img src="https://i.abcnewsfe.com/a/4fac32d4-7b1b-4d16-ac20-66aacc61c59f/ABC_NYDroneNoFlyMap_v03_DP_1734711138103_hpEmbed_1x1.jpg" alt="Map of New York flight restrictions">

Potential Consequences

The NOTAM warns that violating the restrictions could lead to interception, detention, and potential criminal charges.

Ongoing Investigation

The FBI has received over 5,000 tips related to drone sightings. A joint statement from multiple agencies suggests the sightings are a mix of lawful drones, hobbyist drones, and even misidentified aircraft.