FBI warns public against misidentifying drones as planes amid increased sightings

The FBI Newark emphasized that UAS are often mistaken for objects like manned aircraft or celestial bodies. They advised using tools like Flightradar24 and ADS-B Exchange for accurate identification to maintain safety and ensure appropriate responses to UAS activity.

Social media platforms, including TikTok, have contributed to drone hysteria with disinformation spreading widely. TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, faces an impending US ban unless it divests from the app due to security concerns. Meanwhile, some users have posted videos showing lasers being pointed at identifiable aircraft.

President-elect Donald Trump addressed drone-related issues in a news conference on December 16. He suggested that more information should be disclosed regarding alleged drone sightings known by President Joe Biden and the US military.

On December 15, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reiterated that laser strikes on aircraft pose significant safety hazards and violate federal law. The FAA received multiple reports from flight crews in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania about laser incidents. It reminded operators of legal guidelines when flying drones within the National Airspace System.

Earlier this month, air traffic was slowed at New York Stewart International Airport due to reported drone sightings but resumed normal operations later that day without incident.