According to the El Paso Airport and multiple news outlets such as KTSM and the El Paso Herald Post , El Paso has become the first city in the United States to implement a comprehensive networked remote identification (Remote ID) detection system. The system is reportedly capable of detecting drones broadcasting Remote ID message elements flying within and beyond 500 square miles of airspace surrounding the El Paso International Airport.

The implementation of the networked Remote ID system comes ahead of the implementation of Remote ID by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on September 16, 2023.

The following are the advertised public benefits of the system:

  • Enhanced Public Safety
    • Provide real-time information about drone flights to prevent unauthorized drone operations and reduce the risk of accidents in air space.
  • Support for Commercial Drone Operations
    • Pave the way for expanding commercial drone operations, including package delivery, infrastructure inspection, and emergency response services.
  • Privacy Protection
    • Adhere to strict privacy guidelines to protect the personal information of drone operators.

What does Remote ID mean for law enforcement and security personnel? Check out a new white paper- Remote Identification: A Primer for Security Professionals