The White House confirmed that the drones observed flying over New Jersey and other regions in November were authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for research and related activities. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt conveyed this information, stating that the drones had been studied to clarify their origins, which had previously sparked public concern and media attention.
Leavitt emphasized that in addition to FAA-authorized drones, hobbyist-operated drones were also part of the sightings, which increased as public curiosity grew. She reassured the public, stating, "This was not the enemy," indicating that there was no threat associated with the drone activity.
The drone sightings had initially attracted the attention of the FBI, prompting them to request public assistance in reporting information related to the incidents. In response to the numerous reports, the FAA implemented temporary flight restrictions over specific areas in New Jersey. However, an FBI official later noted that out of approximately 5,000 tips received regarding the drone sightings, fewer than 100 were deemed significant enough to warrant further investigation.
Additionally, a Department of Homeland Security official expressed confidence that many reported drones may have been misidentified manned aircraft. An analysis involving the White House, FBI, and local authorities concluded that the sightings could be attributed to "lawful, legal, commercial hobbyist and even law enforcement aircraft activity."
President Donald Trump, who had previously promised to investigate the matter, suggested that the drones were likely not an enemy threat, referencing their presence near his Bedminster club in New Jersey.