Designation: Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility

Dan Colletti, Director of Physical Security for Markley Group LLC, supports the proposed rule to restrict unauthorized drone operations near critical infrastructure. He argues that these restrictions are necessary to protect data centers and telecommunications facilities from surveillance, reconnaissance, and potential disruption.

The commenter supports the proposed drone restrictions and advocates for even stricter measures for energy sector critical infrastructure, such as ISO/RTO control centers. They specifically request 24/7 permanent flight restrictions, special UAFR requirements, and expanded buffer zones to protect the bulk electric grid.

The Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI), representing the nuclear energy industry, supports the FAA's effort to restrict unmanned aircraft near critical infrastructure but requests modifications to avoid duplicative regulations with the NRC. They specifically argue against mandatory Remote ID sensing, advocate for the recognition of existing NRC security plans, and request streamlined transition processes for existing restricted sites.

Raad Labs Inc. supports the FAA's objective to secure critical infrastructure but argues that the proposed rule's "transit-only" approach burdens trusted operators without providing significant security benefits. They recommend categorically exempting certificated, vetted operators from restrictions while mandating a standardized, automated notification system to protect small businesses from administrative burdens.

Percepto, a UAS manufacturer and operator, supports the FAA's proposed rulemaking to restrict unmanned aircraft operations near fixed site facilities. They advocate for a risk-based, facility-specific approach that balances national security with continued access for authorized commercial operators.

The Fertilizer Institute (TFI), representing the U.S. fertilizer industry, supports the FAA's proposed rule to restrict unmanned aircraft operations near critical infrastructure. They advocate for a risk-informed, practical framework that allows for facility-specific boundaries, clarifies Remote ID standards, and streamlines the application process to avoid unnecessary regulatory burdens.

GSK supports the FAA's proposed rule to restrict unmanned aircraft near fixed-site facilities but argues that the eligibility criteria should be expanded to include pharmaceutical research and development (R&D) and manufacturing facilities. They also recommend creating different types of flight restrictions that prohibit loitering while still permitting flyovers to balance security with the right of transit.

The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association supports the proposed rule to restrict drone operations near critical infrastructure, specifically urging the FAA to include commercial poultry and egg production facilities in these protections. They argue that unauthorized drone flights pose significant biosecurity risks and threaten national food security, and they recommend specific buffer zones and operator exceptions.

Fairfax Water, a large public water utility, supports the FAA's proposal to include water, wastewater, and dam infrastructure as eligible sectors for unmanned aircraft flight restrictions (UAFRs). They advocate for specific refinements, including expedited approval for large systems, bundled applications to reduce administrative burdens, and clear guidance on utility-led UAS operations within restricted zones.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association supports the proposed rulemaking to restrict unmanned aircraft operations near fixed site facilities, specifically advocating for the inclusion of food and agricultural properties as critical infrastructure. They argue that these restrictions are necessary to protect the privacy, security, and livestock welfare of cattle producers from aerial trespassing and potential violence by activists or bad actors.