Stewart Airport Shut Down Due to the Drones: 'This Has Gone Too Far'
Dozens of Drones Flew Over Home of Ex-Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan |
The drones forced Stewart Airfield to shut down its airspace |
The growing frequency of unauthorized drones in restricted airspace, including airports and critical infrastructure across New York and neighboring states, has alarmed both officials and citizens. The most recent incident forced the temporary closure of runways at New York Stewart International Airport in Newburgh on December 13, further intensifying calls for action. “This has gone too far,” Hochul declared, underscoring the urgent need to address these disruptions.
Runway Shutdown at Stewart International Airport
According to a spokesperson for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, the incident at Stewart occurred around 9:40 p.m. on December 13, when a drone was spotted in the airport’s airspace. Runways were closed for approximately one hour, reopening at 10:45 p.m. Although flight operations were reportedly unaffected, the sighting highlighted the potential vulnerabilities of a facility that serves both commercial aviation and military operations. Stewart is home to the Stewart Air National Guard Base, which houses the 105th Airlift Wing, a vital component of U.S. national defense.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have launched a joint investigation into the sighting, part of a larger inquiry into the rising number of unauthorized drone flights across the region.
Learn more: Shooting Down the Mysterious Drones in New Jersey
A Regional Crisis
The Stewart Airport incident is only the latest in a series of alarming drone encounters. Similar reports have emerged from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut, adding to the sense of urgency. On December 13, Pennsylvania joined New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut in reporting unexplained drone flights over critical areas.
In Staten Island, Borough President Vito Fossella noted drones have been observed hovering near key infrastructure, including Port Liberty, the Goethals Bridge, and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. One drone reportedly flew over Fort Wadsworth, one of the oldest military installations in the United States. In New Jersey, Naval Weapons Station Earle near Middletown has documented several incursions into its restricted airspace. Belleville Mayor Michael Melham revealed that local authorities were instructed to contact bomb squads if they encountered any downed drones, a reflection of the heightened security concerns.
Connecticut has responded proactively, with state police deploying a drone detection system following multiple sightings in Fairfield County. Officials emphasized that the system is designed to provide early warnings and mitigate potential threats.
Governor Hochul’s Plan for Federal Intervention
Governor Hochul has called for immediate federal action to address what she described as a “growing crisis.” On December 14, she reiterated her demand for Congress to pass the Counter-UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act. This legislation would strengthen the FAA’s regulatory oversight of drones and expand counter-drone capabilities to state and local law enforcement agencies. Hochul also urged the Biden Administration to step in immediately, deploying federal law enforcement resources to New York and surrounding regions.
“Our airports, bridges, and critical infrastructure must be protected,” Hochul said. “Until Congress acts, the federal government must use all available tools to ensure the safety of our people and facilities.”
In mid-November, Hochul directed the New York State Intelligence Center to intensify its monitoring of drone activity and coordinate with federal law enforcement. However, she noted that state efforts are insufficient without enhanced federal support and legal authority.
Broader National Concerns
The mysterious drone sightings have sparked national debate and bipartisan concern. Federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI, have briefed top lawmakers in the House and Senate, as well as state delegations, about the incidents. Lawmakers like Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal have called for decisive action, stating, “We should be doing smart intelligence analysis and taking these drones out of the skies, especially if they’re flying over sensitive areas like airports or military bases.”
Former President Donald Trump added to the discourse, posting on Truth Social: “Mystery Drone sightings all over the Country. Can this really be happening without our government’s knowledge? I don’t think so! Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, shoot them down!!!”
Meanwhile, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has requested additional federal resources to address the issue, and Rockland County Executive Ed Day sent a letter to President Biden urging a comprehensive federal investigation. “The fact that this issue has persisted for weeks without clear answers is completely unacceptable—not just to the people of Rockland County, but to communities across the nation,” Day stated.
Public Safety Measures and Investigations
Although state and local law enforcement agencies are increasing patrols and deploying new drone detection systems, the overall lack of clarity surrounding the incidents has left many residents uneasy. New York State Police have confirmed they are actively investigating the reports but maintain that there is no immediate evidence of a threat to public safety.
The FAA is exploring technological solutions, including geofencing and radar systems, to detect and neutralize rogue drones near sensitive areas. These efforts align with broader calls for stronger enforcement of no-fly zones and enhanced penalties for drone misuse.
In the meantime, officials are urging the public to remain vigilant. Any sightings of suspicious drones should be reported immediately to assist ongoing investigations.
Looking Ahead
The mysterious drone activity underscores the urgent need for updated policies and technologies to address the evolving challenges posed by unmanned aerial systems. As the investigations continue, Governor Hochul vowed to prioritize the safety of New Yorkers and the state’s critical infrastructure. “We cannot afford delays,” she said. “The safety of our airspace and our communities depends on decisive, coordinated action at every level of government.”
This unfolding situation remains a focal point for federal and state agencies as they work to uncover the origins of these unexplained drone sightings and prevent further disruptions. For now, the public, law enforcement, and government officials alike are on high alert, watching the skies for answers.
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