Troy E. Nehls, a U.S. Congressman representing Texas’ 22nd district and Chairman of the Aviation Subcommittee, recently shared his concerns regarding drone security at commercial airports in a series of tweets. The posts underscore the potential risks posed by drones entering restricted airspace and the necessity for improved mitigation strategies.
On February 6, 2025, Congressman Nehls expressed alarm after an aviation subcommittee hearing, stating: “WOW: As Chairman of the Aviation Subcommittee, I asked today’s hearing witnesses if they believed we are prepared today, in terms of mitigation, if a bad actor flies a drone into restricted air space at our nation’s 450+ commercial airports. All three witnesses said no.”
Following this revelation, he emphasized the importance of prioritizing passenger safety and national security. He stated on the same day: “Ensuring passenger safety and safeguarding our national security should be the utmost priority. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to strengthen our capabilities to address this issue.”
Congressman Nehls further highlighted the urgent need for federal resources dedicated to detecting and neutralizing drones that pose threats in restricted areas. He remarked: “Today’s hearing showcased the urgent need for airports across the country to have federal resources to detect, mitigate, and neutralize nefarious drones in restricted airspace.”
