TSA to Test Drone Detection Technology at Miami Airport

  • By Matt Jones
  • Aug 24, 2021

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced that it will test new drone detection technology at the Miami International Airport (MIA) in Miami, Fla. The technology is designed to detect, track and identify drones attempting to enter restricted airspace.

“TSA’s establishment and management of this assessment of UAS [Unmanned Aircraft Systems] detection technologies is a critical part of our agency’s overall strategy to collect data for further deployments of equipment at U.S. airports,” said TSA Federal Security Director Daniel Ronan in a news release.

TSA selected Miami international Airport as the test site due to a continuing perimeter intrusion technology pilot program already in progress, as well as a strong relationship with the airport.

“Congratulations to MIA for being selected as the test airport for this historic security effort by our federal government,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cara. “Miami-Dade County is fortunate to be the home of not only one of the nation’s leading airports in passenger and cargo operations, but also in security and safety.”

TSA is partnering with airport, local law enforcement, and intra-agency professionals to test certain technologies designed to detect, track and identify drone threats across aviation, surface and other transportation domains. Tests will occur in both laboratory and outdoor field environments, and methods include radar, thermal imaging and artificial intelligence.

“We are extremely proud to be chosen by TSA for this landmark test of drone detection technology, which will reap unprecedented security benefits for MIA and our sister airports across the country,” said Lester Sola, MIA Director and CEO. We look forward to bolstering our strong partnership with TSA through this new initiative, as we continue to advance our shared priority of enhancing the safety and security of our passengers, employees and business partners.”

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning and Campus Security and Life Safety. He can be reached at [email protected]

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