Comment from DT Midstream
DT MidstreamSupportBusiness
Summary: David Slater, CEO of DT Midstream, Inc., expresses strong support for the proposed regulations to restrict unauthorized drone operations over critical energy infrastructure. He argues that these rules are necessary to protect personnel and assets from potential threats while recommending an expansion of the scope to include all natural gas processing plants handling toxic gases.
This rulemaking is particularly significant given the documented increase in unauthorized drone activity across critical infrastructure sectors, including energy facilities. The absence of a clear, consistent framework has limited the ability of owners and operators to proactively mitigate these risks through airspace protections. DTM views the proposed UAFR construct as a foundational control that enhances deterrence, improves situational awareness, and establishes a regulatory mechanism for protecting facilities. At the same time, we recognize the FAA’s responsibility to balance security needs with the continued integration and safe operation of UAS within the National Airspace System (NAS), and we support this balanced approach.
As the FAA advances toward a final rule, it is essential that the framework remains practical, risk-informed, and operationally implementable for industry stakeholders. This includes ensuring clarity in eligibility criteria, timely processing of applications, and alignment with existing security and compliance obligations. DTM emphasizes that UAFRs should be viewed as an initial step, not a complete solution. While they provide an important deterrent and regulatory safeguard, additional clarity and progress on scalable, lawful counter-UAS capabilities will be necessary to fully address the evolving threat landscape facing critical infrastructure owners and operators.