Federal Aviation Administration to Implement Temporary Flight Restrictions over New York’s Critical Infrastructure Sites
Governor Kathy Hochul Announces Precautionary Measure
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Thursday night that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is planning to grant temporary flight restrictions over some of New York’s critical infrastructure sites.
No Threat to Sites, but Precautionary Measure
The governor emphasized that the move is precautionary and there is no threat to these sites. She called on Congress to "pass legislation to give states and local law enforcement the authority and resources they need to manage this evolving technology."
Similar Restrictions Implemented in New Jersey
The FAA also temporarily banned drone flights in 22 areas of New Jersey where critical infrastructure is located. FAA officials said the flight restrictions were requested by federal security agencies and are effective through Jan. 17.
New Directive Gives Government Right to Use Deadly Force
The new directive gives the government the right to use "deadly force" against the drones if they pose a threat. Some lawmakers on Capitol Hill are trying to take action, but a bill that would allow local officials to counter drone threats failed in the Senate on Wednesday due to privacy concerns among republicans despite the bill having strong support within the drone industry.
Experts Split on Reasons for Uptick in Drone Sightings
Ultimately, experts are split about why there’s been such an uptick in drone sightings; however, most agree that more needs to be done to determine if there’s a risk and how to stop it.
Conclusion
The FAA’s decision to implement temporary flight restrictions over New York’s critical infrastructure sites is a precautionary measure to ensure public safety. While some lawmakers are pushing for legislation to give states and local law enforcement the authority to manage drone technology, others are concerned about privacy issues. As the debate continues, it is clear that more needs to be done to address the growing issue of drone sightings.
FAQs
Q: Why is the FAA implementing temporary flight restrictions over New York’s critical infrastructure sites?
A: The FAA is implementing temporary flight restrictions as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety.
Q: Is there a threat to the critical infrastructure sites?
A: No, there is no threat to the critical infrastructure sites.
Q: What is the purpose of the new directive?
A: The new directive gives the government the right to use "deadly force" against drones if they pose a threat.
Q: Why did a bill to allow local officials to counter drone threats fail in the Senate?
A: The bill failed due to privacy concerns among republicans.
Q: What is the current situation regarding drone sightings?
A: Experts are split about why there’s been such an uptick in drone sightings, but most agree that more needs to be done to determine if there’s a risk and how to stop it.
