Numerous reports of drone sightings along the East Coast have triggered public anxiety and calls for investigation. While some witnesses described aircraft "the size of cars" flying near sensitive areas, officials maintain that most, if not all, of these flights are legal and pose no threat.
The surge in reported sightings began in New Jersey coastal areas, then spread to New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy expressed his concerns to President Biden, requesting federal assistance to investigate the matter.
Some lawmakers have demanded involvement from Homeland Security and the FBI, with one even suggesting the objects should be shot down. However, White House national security spokesman John Kirby stated there's no evidence of a national security or public safety threat, or any foreign connection.
Retired Port Authority Police Detective Lt. John Ryan attributed the increased sightings to two factors: the rapid growth of drone technology for both recreational and commercial purposes, and public misunderstanding about which authorities to contact. He emphasized the FAA's role in drone registration and oversight, pointing out that over 790,000 drones are registered with the agency.
Ryan believes people are mistakenly contacting the FBI and Homeland Security instead of the FAA. The Pentagon also confirmed the drones aren't foreign and weren't considered a national security threat. Kirby added that a ban on drone use in U.S. airspace isn't currently under consideration.
