The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has broadened its temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) to encompass parts of nine additional municipalities in New Jersey, citing continued concerns over unexplained drone activity. These new measures, issued Monday, follow similar restrictions enacted earlier in December and will remain in place until January 19.

The newly affected areas include:

  • Gloucester County: Paulsboro, Westville
  • Hudson County: South Kearny
  • Middlesex County: Port Reading
  • Monmouth County: Atlantic Highlands, Belford, Fort Hancock, Highlands
  • Union County: Linden

These restrictions prohibit unmanned aircraft operations below 400 feet within one nautical mile of the designated airspace in each of these towns. Certain exceptions exist for first responders and specific commercial drone operations authorized by the FAA.

The FAA’s expanded restrictions come amidst heightened public concern and widespread reports of unidentified drone sightings throughout New Jersey and neighboring states. Federal authorities have emphasized that there is no evidence of a direct threat to public safety. However, the surge in reports – with more than 5,000 submissions reviewed by the FBI – has raised questions about the nature and origins of the drones.

According to federal officials, most sightings have been attributed to misidentifications, such as airplanes, other manned aircraft, authorized drones or even stars. Around 2 percent of the reports have warranted further investigation, however.

Among the newly restricted areas are sites near sensitive infrastructure, such as Naval Weapons Station Earle’s nearly three-mile pier along Sandy Hook Bay. This location reported two unauthorized drone incursions earlier in December, which likely influenced the decision to extend restrictions to nearby towns, including Fort Hancock and Highlands.

Public response

The FAA’s actions have drawn mixed reactions from local officials and residents. A recent poll by CBS News revealed that 78 percent of Americans believe the government is withholding information about drone activity, while 53 percent perceive drones as a potential threat to national security. These figures reflect growing unease and a demand for greater transparency from federal agencies.

Efforts to address these concerns have included an FBI-led investigation and interagency collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security. However, both agencies have largely referred inquiries back to the FAA, leaving many questions unanswered.

The wave of restrictions highlights the challenges of balancing national security with the increasing use of drones for recreational and commercial purposes. As the FAA continues to navigate these complex regulatory challenges, drone operators have been urged to stay informed about the latest TFRs and adhere to regulations to avoid penalties.

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