Drone Mayhem Grounds NYC Airport: Governor Hochul Demands Answers

A series of mysterious drone sightings has thrown a wrench into air travel near New York City. Governor Kathy Hochul is demanding federal assistance after a drone sighting shut down Stewart International Airport for an hour Friday night. This incident is just the latest in a string of similar events across the state since mid-November.

<img src="https://i.abcnewsfe.com/a/e98e9074-24d6-4cf4-8a47-a4ec87a5fc4d/drones-new-jersey-ap-jt-241214_1734194476003_hpMain.jpg" alt="Image of drone sightings">

Airport Shutdown and Official Response

The FAA alerted Stewart International Airport to the drone, prompting a temporary runway closure. While the Port Authority confirmed no flights were impacted, Governor Hochul expressed immense frustration, stating, "This has gone too far." She's called upon the New York State Intelligence Center for investigation and urged Congress to pass the Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act to strengthen FAA drone oversight and empower state and local law enforcement.

<img src="https://i.abcnewsfe.com/a/2c6bfdb8-3f15-4025-9dc1-87e6bce7efe3/drone-ap-jt-241213_1734126082588_hpEmbed_2_16x13.jpg" alt="Image of drone">

Federal Investigation Underway

A joint federal investigation is ongoing, with officials emphasizing that the reported sightings might include misidentified aircraft. Although the FBI has received nearly 5,000 tips, fewer than 100 have yielded concrete leads. Despite the ongoing investigation, the FAA acknowledges confirmed drone activity in New Jersey, highlighting the nearly one million registered drones nationwide. The FAA has implemented temporary no-drone zones near military bases and key locations in response to the threat.

The Mystery Continues

The sheer number of drone sightings, particularly near major airports and military installations, remains a significant concern. The lack of definitive answers fuels speculation, with questions about the drones' origins and intentions continuing to dominate the conversation. The investigation's outcome will be crucial in determining the next steps toward improving security and addressing these ongoing disruptions.