Makes Call After Drone Crashes Through Manhattan Apartment Window

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) plans to push for language in the upcoming FAA reauthorization bill to require geo-fencing technology for consumer drones.

Schumer (pictured) made the call for the addition to the FAA reauthorization bill after a drone smashed through the window of a 27th floor apartment in Manhattan Sunday, according to a report from the New York Daily News. The geo-fencing would create no-fly zones by preventing drones from flying where they are not allowed.

The incident that sparked the call involved a woman working on her computer in her 27th floor apartment in Manhattan got a surprise on Sunday afternoon. A GoPro Karma drone crashed through her window and landed about four feet from her desk, according to police.

The New York Post reports that the incident occurred about 1745 local time. It is not known whether the owner has registered the aircraft with the FAA, which would be required for the GoPro Karma. Police might also be able to use the serial number on the battery to trace the ownership of the aircraft, according to the report.

“There needs to be a clear strategy to address the public safety dilemma of reckless drones in a way that does not impede innovation or responsible use,” Schumer said. “That’s why requiring geo-fencing technology will effectively fence off drones from sensitive areas like airports or secure buildings.”

“If geo-fencing technology were mandated in every drone sold in America, it would go a long way toward preventing the kinds of near-misses we have seen, and still allow hobbyists to fly drones in safe places,” Schumer said.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.schumer.senate.gov