WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Frank A. LoBiondo (NJ-02), chairman of the House Aviation Subcommittee, applauded the successful pilot project conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) at Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) to test methods to intercept unmanned aerial systems (UAS) flown in close proximity to airports. The pilot project – a joint venture with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) – sought to test new technology to detect and identify “rogue drones” to ensure the safety and security of the nation’s airports.
“I applaud the FAA, DHS and CACI International for a successful pilot project at ACY of cutting-edge technology to balance the opportunities of unmanned aerial systems with the safety and security of critical infrastructure and air space,” said LoBiondo, chair of the House Aviation Subcommittee. “Once again the unique assets we have here in South Jersey are proving invaluable in the research, development and deployment of new aviation technologies. The FAA Technical Center, ACY and other local facilities continue to play a critical role in the safe integration of unmanned technology into the national air space. I will continue to strongly encourage the FAA to look to South Jersey – an aviation leader for the nation – for additional research and pilot projects.”
The FAA and DHS partnered with CACI International to test their “SkyTracker” technology at ACY. The proof-of-concept system uses radio sensors strategically placed around the airport to detect frequencies unmanned aircraft typically use. The system then triangulates the signals and can determine the location of the UAS and the operator for law enforcement to intervene. LoBiondo was made aware of the project in October 2015 and monitored its progress throughout the trial.
Cape May – Governor Murphy says he doesn't know anything about the drones and doesn't know what they are doing but he does know that they are not dangerous. Does anyone feel better now?
