US Congress was evacuated yesterday after Capitol Police stated it was “tracking an aircraft that poses a possible threat to the Capitol Complex,” CBS News reported. Everyone stood down a short while later when it turned out to be a parachute demonstration, however the incident induced numerous ire. “The Federal Aviation Administration’s apparent failure to notify Capitol Police of the pre-planned flyover [at] Nationals Stadium is outrageous and inexcusable,” wrote House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
The airplane belonged to the Army Golden Knights parachuting crew, dropping parachutists into the stadium for Military Appreciation Day. The pilot reportedly averted flying over the restricted airspace over the Capitol Building and was coordinating with the management tower, however might not have had correct clearance, based on The Associated Press.
FlightRadar24
The FAA acknowledged the incident and promised an “expeditious” evaluation. “We know our actions affect others, especially in our nation’s capital region, and we must communicate early and often with our law enforcement partners,” it stated in a press release. The airplane’s total voyage was tracked by FlightRadar24 (above).
The incident demonstrates the extent of coordination wanted between FAA, legislation enforcement and different events, significantly close to restricted areas. As such, it could be an instance of why the company has been so cautious in allowing passenger or supply drones to function in populated or delicate areas. Such incidents are uncommon these days, however issues may get chaotic with hundreds of latest drones plying the skies if the federal government does not have a complete plan.
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