Seeing drones again in New Jersey this month? Here's why
CAPE MAY, N.J. - Drone sightings across New Jersey last year gained national attention, while causing lots of public concern.
This month, residents in South Jersey may see more drones pop up in the sky, but officials say there's no reason to worry.
What we know:
The Federal Aviation Administration says they started drone-detection testing in Cape May on Monday, and will continue until April 25.
Several large drones and more than 100 commercial off-the-shelves drones will be deployed throughout the two-week period.
Testing will take place over the water and near the Cape May Ferry Terminal during the day on weekdays.
Residents are being asked not to fly their own recreational drones until testing is complete.
Drone ban in NJ: FAA places flight restrictions as sightings continue
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has temporarily prohibited drones in parts of New Jersey, but why if officials say there is no threat? Here's what you need to know.
What they're saying:
The FAA says they have been testing drone detection technologies at airports for several years, and are now expanding to off-airport locations.
"These tests will help determine the effectiveness of these technologies and whether they might interfere with FAA or aircraft navigation systems," the FAA said.
The backstory:
The drone-detection testing comes several months after an influx of drone sightings in parts of New Jersey left residents searching for answers.
The sightings raised public concerns and attracted the attention of the FBI and FAA, who issued temporary flight restrictions.
Speculation about the origins of the drone mystery even prompted an update from President Trump.
New Jersey drone sightings: Trump White House says 'This was not the enemy'
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt provided an update Tuesday on mysterious drone sightings over New Jersey that gained national attention.
"After research and study, the drones that were flying over New Jersey in large numbers were authorized to be flown by the FAA for research and various other reasons," Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said. "Many of these drones were also hobbyists, recreational, and private individuals that enjoy flying drones."
The Source: Information from this article was sourced from the FAA and previous reporting by FOX 29.