AAPA Calls for Expanded Drone Restriction Authority in FAA Rulemaking

American Association of Port Authorities submitted comments to the Federal Aviation Administration on a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking concerning unmanned aircraft flight restrictions around eligible fixed-site facilities, including ports, as part of implementation of Section 2209 of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016.

AAPA stated that ports handle hazardous materials, military cargo, cruise passengers, and essential goods, and that unauthorized drone activity raises safety, surveillance, and operational concerns.
The association outlined recommendations including expanded eligibility for maritime facilities, recognition of port authorities as critical infrastructure operators, improved coordination, and expanded detection and mitigation authorities.

AAPA also noted that unauthorized drone activity may impact economic resilience, defense readiness, and homeland security objectives.

Read AAPA’s comments in full here.