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White House Says Mystery Drones Authorized by FAA as Sightings Return

According to tracking platform Enigma Labs, sightings dipped after the aviation agency implemented bans but spiked when they were lifted.

drones
President Donald Trump said unidentified drones reported to be flying in the U.S. Northeast were authorized by the FAA. [Courtesy: JeShoots/Pexels]
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Key Takeaways:

The White House on Tuesday offered an explanation for a spate of unusual drone sightings in the U.S. Northeast in November and December, which ignited concern among local residents and officials and prompted the FAA to issue more than 50 temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) over electric and power facilities across New Jersey and New York.

According to President Donald Trump, the drones—which witnesses have described as large and hovering in small clusters near homes, golf courses, and military installations—are “not the enemy.”

Jack Daleo

Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.

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