This upcoming round of tests is far from the first time the FAA is evaluating drone detection and mitigation systems for airports. The agency has been trialing them for years, even before the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 compelled the agency to ensure that drone detecting technologies do not interfere with safe airport operations.

Just a few days ago, the FAA, the Department of Justice, the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Communications Commission have also issued a joint advisory guidance document that aims to help private entities understand federal laws that apply to the use of drone detecting systems.

Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen said in a statement back then:

“As the number of drones in our airspace continue to rise, it is unsurprising that the availability of counter-drone technologies has likewise increased. Because these technologies may be presented for sale without a full discussion of important legal requirements, this Advisory steps forward to provide an outline of the relevant legal landscape. By encouraging a common understanding of potentially applicable laws, the Advisory can help foster responsible industry growth and promote public safety.”