The federal government is bringing a new, advanced drone detection system to New York after a series of unidentified drone sightings, Governor Kathy Hochul announced.
Hochul is also urging Congress to pass the Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act. This bill would give New York and other states more power and tools to address these types of drone issues.
In November, Hochul directed the New York State Intelligence Center to investigate drone sightings and work with federal agencies to find solutions.
The Drone Problem
The governor’s statement comes after runways at Stewart Airfield were shut down for an hour on Saturday due to drone activity. There have also been weeks of reports of drones—some described as large as SUVs—flying over Staten Island and other areas, including New Jersey.
Federal Support and Local Concerns
Hochul thanked the Biden administration for deploying the detection system but said Congress must pass the new bill to fully address the issue. She assured residents that there is “no evidence that these drones pose a public safety or national security threat.”
At the same time, local politicians, including Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella, are demanding clearer answers and investigations from the NYPD and federal authorities.
“Step up and be honest with the American people and solve this problem,” Fossella said.
Confusion About the Drones
While drones have been seen near military locations like Fort Wadsworth and Fort Hamilton, the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) has not set any air restrictions for Staten Island or New York City.
White House official John Kirby suggested that many sightings are likely people misidentifying legally-operating aircraft, though military officials have disagreed with that claim.
Local Representative Nicole Malliotakis echoed the frustration: “The government isn’t telling us who’s operating these drones or why. We just want clear answers.”