As drones become more affordable and accessible, officials at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport say the risks they pose are increasing.
The airport's head of operations told lawmakers on Thursday that thousands of drones are tracked in the area each year, with many flagged for flying in restricted airspace.
In response, U.S. Rep. Troy Nehls (R-Texas) is advocating for law enforcement to use a new counter-drone device, the DeDrone Defender. The device, which resembles a firearm, disrupts drones using radio waves rather than bullets. Nehls is pushing for the technology to be deployed at airports nationwide, regardless of size.
Federal aviation authorities have repeatedly warned of the dangers drones pose to commercial aircraft, particularly near busy airports like DFW. The push for counter-drone measures comes amid growing concerns over aviation safety and security.
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