2024 United States drone sightings
States in which drone sightings were reported from November–December 2024. | |
| Date | November 13 – December 2024 |
|---|---|
| Location | United States |
| Type | Mass drone sightings |
| Cause | Misidentification, FAA approved/research |
| Arrests | 3 |
| |
The 2024 United States drone sightings, also referred to as the New Jersey drone sightings, involved a series of reports of large, unidentified drones observed at night across multiple regions of the United States between November and December 2024. The phenomenon originated in New Jersey before spreading to neighboring states like New York and Pennsylvania, and eventually across the Northeastern United States and other parts of the country. These sightings, often occurring over residential areas and critical infrastructure, prompted investigations by local, state, and federal authorities.
Investigations by civilian and military agencies and independent experts concluded that the reported sightings largely consisted of authorized drones and misidentified manned aircraft, celestial bodies, and other routine aerial objects. Commentators also attributed the sightings to widespread confirmation bias and mass hysteria, comparing them to a traditional UFO flap. Alternative explanations such as military operations received limited support.
Overflights of certain U.S. military bases led officials to request expanded authority to counter drones, however the Pentagon noted that drone flyovers are common and typically not malicious, and experts like Jamey Jacob suggested the incidents were likely the result of careless actors.
In response to the sightings, government officials called for increased transparency and resources for investigations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented temporary flight restrictions over sensitive areas in New York and New Jersey.