If you’re vacationing near the Jersey Shore and notice a swarm of drones overhead, don’t panic — it’s all part of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) experiment. From April 14 to 25, the FAA is conducting a large-scale drone detection test near New Jersey’s Cape May Ferry Terminal, aiming to enhance airspace safety.
This initiative, led by the FAA’s Center of Excellence for UAS Research (ASSURE), involves flying several large drones alongside over 100 commercial off-the-shelf models during weekday daylight hours. The goal is to assess how well various detection systems — like Remote ID, acoustic arrays, and X-band radar — can identify and track drones of different sizes and speeds. These tests are crucial for ensuring that such technologies don’t interfere with FAA or aircraft navigation systems.
The Delaware River Bay Authority Police and local first responders are also participating, ensuring comprehensive evaluation in real-world conditions. The FAA has requested that recreational drone users avoid flying in the area during the testing period to prevent any interference.
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This testing comes in the wake of numerous drone sightings near airports, with the FAA receiving over 100 such reports monthly. While many of these sightings are later attributed to manned aircraft or lawful drone operations, the agency is keen on improving detection capabilities to maintain airspace safety
Interestingly, the choice of Cape May for this testing is due to its proximity to the FAA’s William J. Hughes Technical Center near Atlantic City, rather than any specific incidents in the area. However, the tests are timely, considering past concerns over unidentified drones in New Jersey’s skies.
This Cape May initiative is part of a broader FAA effort to expand drone detection testing beyond airports. Previous tests have been conducted in Alaska, with plans for additional trials in New Mexico, North Dakota, and Mississippi later this year.
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