Temporary flight restrictions issued in New Jersey amid drone sightings

Editor's note: The video above aired on Dec. 18, 2024.

NEW JERSEY (PIX11) – Temporary flight restrictions have gone into effect across New Jersey as of Wednesday, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

The FAA cited security as the reason for the bans. The restrictions come amid mysterious drone sightings being investigated by federal, state and local authorities.

New Jersey mayors argue that the federal government isn't doing enough to keep residents' fears about the unidentified drones at bay.

“I think the powers-that-be are stonewalling,” Mine Hill Mayor Sam Morris told PIX11 News. “And I would not stop short of saying I think they’re gaslighting. They’re trying to now tell people you’re not seeing anything. And that’s just not true.”

A bipartisan bill that would allow local law enforcement to track drones was blocked from advancing in the Senate on Wednesday.

“The people in New York and New Jersey have a lot of questions, and they’re not getting good enough answers,” Sen. Chuck Schumer said.

Here's where the restrictions were issued:

• Hamilton
• Bridgewater
• Cedar Grove
• North Brunswick Township
• Metuchen
• Evesham
• Camden
• Gloucester City
• Westampton
• South Brunswick
• Edison
• Branchburg
• Sewaren
• Jersey City
• Harrison
• Elizabeth
• Bayonne
• Winslow
• Burlington
• Clifton
• Hancocks Bridge
• Kearny

The flight bans last through Jan. 17, 2025. For more information, click here for the FAA's website.

This story comprises reporting from The Associated Press.