Drones seen in New Jersey were authorized by FAA for ‘research,’ White House says

(Gray News) - The drones that flew across New Jersey in recent months were authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

“The drones that were flying over New Jersey in large numbers were authorized to be flown by the FAA for research and various other reasons,” Leavitt said Tuesday.

Leavitt and the White House did not say who the drones were operated by but did say some were also flown by “hobbyists.”

“Many of these drones were also operated by hobbyists, recreational users, and private individuals who enjoy flying drones. While the increase in activity may have sparked curiosity and concern, I want to assure everyone—this was not the enemy," she said, quoting Trump.