As drone technology evolves quickly, experts in the field are urging Congress to take action, warning that if left unregulated, this could lead to serious risks in national security due to airspace violations.
During a recent hearing with the U.S. Homeland Security Subcommittee, professionals from the drone industry raised concerns about the existing dangers posed by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). “Over half of recent close calls involving commercial and general aviation have involved drones,” stated Tom Walker, CEO of Droneup.
Walker collaborates closely with various federal entities, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT), as he manages the largest drone service network globally and pushes for updates to national airspace policy. He urged legislators to create a national system capable of tracking each drone, pilot, and mission nationwide.
“We lack a clear picture of airspace usage,” Walker explained. “Right now, we cannot identify the drones or their operators, which is concerning.” Walker highlighted that the federal government does not currently maintain a real-time database to monitor drones or pilots. This gap leads to security vulnerabilities around critical infrastructures and a lack of accountability for violations of airspace regulations.
While remote identification technology, likened to a digital license plate for drones, has been developed, Walker mentioned that it can be easily manipulated, leaving the identity of operators hidden. He expressed frustration over the existing regulations, particularly around specific altitude limits and temporary flight restrictions, noting that these rules have been breached “a million times.”
Walker cited various incidents where drones disrupted emergency response efforts, such as one where a California man was convicted after his drone hindered firefighting operations. A similar situation occurred with a helicopter assisting in flood victim searches in Texas when it was struck by a drone, causing significant delays.
Walker argued these incidents could be entirely avoidable if a centralized identification system existed for drones. “Without awareness of airspace, effective control is unattainable,” he reiterated, stressing the need for authority over national airspace to ensure its protection.
Although some regulatory measures have been introduced, Walker believes the focus is misdirected, emphasizing a needs-based approach to tackle the issues surrounding drone incursions. His plan suggests initially protecting crucial infrastructures where the risk of drone intrusion is higher.
He pointed to recent drone operations, referencing military actions that might have been more effective with better oversight of drone usage in airspace. Walker stressed the importance of integrating drone policies into the rapidly advancing technology landscape to ensure safety while also fostering collaboration among UAS experts and authorities.
Walker warned about the ongoing crisis regarding drones being utilized for smuggling activities, stating that contraband entering facilities isn’t limited to just drugs. The use of drones for such purposes has escalated, posing serious risks to security.
Steven Willoughby, from the Department of Homeland Security, echoed Walker’s concerns in a recent testimony, highlighting the increasing use of drones by drug cartels and the potential for violence directed at law enforcement and citizens.
As discussions around drone regulations continue, the emphasis on creating a comprehensive, real-time database could significantly enhance the ability to manage airspace and improve safety measures for both manned and unmanned aircraft. “Working together in this symbiotic relationship can lead to saving lives and better public protection,” Walker concluded.
