The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is set to carry out drone-detection testing in Cape May, New Jersey, from April 14-25. This initiative is part of the agency's ongoing effort to expand its research on drone detection beyond airport environments.
The FAA’s Center of Excellence for UAS Research, also known as ASSURE, is leading the testing. The Delaware River Bay Authority Police, along with other local first responders, will participate to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. Various drones, including numerous commercial off-the-shelf models, will be used during the testing period. Activities will occur over water and in proximity to the Cape May Ferry Terminal, strictly during weekday daylight hours. The FAA advises the public to avoid flying recreational drones in the area to minimize interference.
For the past several years, the FAA has been testing drone detection technologies at airport locations, and this latest effort marks a shift to off-airport environments. According to the FAA, "these tests will help determine the effectiveness of these technologies and whether they might interfere with FAA or aircraft navigation systems." Following these trials in Cape May, the FAA plans further testing in New Mexico, North Dakota, and Mississippi later this year, expanding on initial trials conducted in Alaska.
The FAA plans to release footage next week to provide more context and information about the testing. The agency routinely receives more than 100 reports of drone sightings near airports each month. Emphasizing the seriousness of the issue, the FAA stated, "operating drones around airplanes, helicopters, and airports is dangerous and illegal."
On March 16, 2023, the FAA established the UAS Detection and Mitigation Systems Aviation Rulemaking Committee to advise on the safe integration of drone detection and mitigation systems. The committee offered 46 recommendations to ensure that these systems do not compromise the safety and efficiency of the National Airspace System. The FAA has integrated many of these suggestions into its ongoing work on drone safety measures.
