FAA Approves Safe Use of Anti-Drone Lasers Along Southern Border
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Department of Defense have reached an agreement confirming that anti-drone lasers can be safely used along the U.S.-Mexico border, preventing future airspace closures in Texas. This decision follows two significant disruptions earlier in the year when counter-drone laser deployments forced the FAA to shut down airspace near El Paso and Fort Hancock. The initial incident involved an unauthorized use by another agency, while the second occurred when the military mistakenly shot down a U.S. Customs and Border Protection drone. A successful safety demonstration at New Mexico's White Sands Missile Range convinced regulators of the technology's safety when proper protocols are followed. The new agreement outlines strict safety precautions for protecting travelers from illicit drone threats. Officials, including FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford and Army Brigadier General Matt Ross, emphasized that this collaboration ensures national security against cartel drones while maintaining the integrity of the National Airspace System. This development aims to balance homeland defense needs with aviation safety, addressing previous coordination failures between military and civil aviation authorities.
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FAA Approves Safe Use of Anti-Drone Lasers Along Southern Border
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Department of Defense have reached an agreement confirming that anti-drone lasers can be safely used along the U.S.-Mexico border, preventing future airspace closures in Texas. This decision follows two significant disruptions earlier in the year when counter-drone laser deployments forced the FAA to shut down airspace near El Paso and Fort Hancock. The initial incident involved an unauthorized use by another agency, while the second occurred when the military mistakenly shot down a U.S. Customs and Border Protection drone. A successful safety demonstration at New Mexico's White Sands Missile Range convinced regulators of the technology's safety when proper protocols are followed. The new agreement outlines strict safety precautions for protecting travelers from illicit drone threats. Officials, including FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford and Army Brigadier General Matt Ross, emphasized that this collaboration ensures national security against cartel drones while maintaining the integrity of the National Airspace System. This development aims to balance homeland defense needs with aviation safety, addressing previous coordination failures between military and civil aviation authorities.
AP News