US Air Force temporarily shuts down major base airspace due to multiple unauthorized drone sightings.
December 16, 2024 – Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado – In a significant security move, Peterson Air Force Base announced the temporary closure of its airspace yesterday afternoon following multiple unauthorized drone sightings near the facility. The decision, aimed at ensuring the safety and security of military operations, affected both military and civilian air traffic in the surrounding area.
At approximately 2:30 PM local time, radar operators at Peterson AFB detected several unidentified drones entering restricted airspace. The drones, varying in size and origin, were tracked for nearly an hour before authorities confirmed they posed potential risks to sensitive military activities. As a precautionary measure, the base’s airspace was immediately closed, grounding all flights in and out of the base until further notice.
“We take any unauthorized drone activity very seriously, especially near critical military installations,” said Colonel Lisa Martinez, spokesperson for the US Air Force. “Our primary concern is the safety of our personnel and the integrity of our operations. We are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the source of these drones.”
The airspace closure impacted both commercial and private flights, causing delays and rerouting for several hours. Local airports reported increased traffic as pilots adjusted their flight paths to avoid the restricted zone. Aviation authorities are working closely with Peterson AFB to manage the disruption and ensure that normal flight operations can resume as quickly as possible.
Initial reports suggest that the drones may have originated from nearby areas, though no definitive sources have been identified yet. The Air Force is collaborating with federal agencies to enhance airspace security and prevent future intrusions. Advanced drone detection systems and stricter regulations on drone usage in sensitive areas are being considered to bolster defenses.
Residents in the vicinity of Peterson Air Force Base expressed concern over the drone sightings. “It’s unsettling to see drones flying so close to a military base,” said John Reynolds, a local business owner. “I hope the authorities can identify who’s behind this and take appropriate action.”
Peterson Air Force Base remains on high alert as investigations continue. The temporary closure of the airspace is expected to be lifted once the situation is deemed secure and the origins of the drones are clarified. Meanwhile, the US Air Force urges anyone with information about the unauthorized drone activity to come forward to assist in their efforts to maintain national security.
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