If you’ve noticed more drones in the skies of New Jersey recently, you’re not imagining it. While a dramatic spike in drone sightings hit the state last December, this uptick doesn’t repeat that panic. Instead, it ties to a federal effort to strengthen drone detection and airspace safety.
The Federal Aviation Administration launched a two-week drone-detection test in Cape May on April 14. The test runs through April 25.
During the operation, FAA crews fly several large drones along with more than 100 commercial off-the-shelf models. They aim to evaluate new detection technology in coastal environments that deal with heavy air traffic, shifting weather and other challenges. Testing takes place only on weekdays during daylight hours. Officials have asked the public to avoid flying recreational drones in the area until the test ends.
ASSURE, the FAA’s research center, leads the operation in coordination with local police and emergency responders. Crews conduct testing over marshes, dunes, open channels and offshore zones. Only authorized personnel may access the sites.
The Cape May test is one of 14 evaluations happening nationwide. The FAA wants to see whether these detection systems can spot drones without disrupting aircraft navigation or other flight operations.
Drone activity in New Jersey surged last year. Residents reported thousands of drone sightings, especially at night. Many involved drones flying in groups, raising safety concerns. Officials verified some reports as drones but later identified others as manned aircraft. The FAA found no national security threat but issued temporary flight restrictions around key infrastructure sites.
The current test doesn’t respond directly to those past incidents. Instead, it supports the FAA’s ongoing effort to refine drone tracking and improve airspace management. The agency plans to release results after analyzing the data collected.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.