Comment from North Carolina Poultry Federation

Michelle Ferritto Office of Rulemaking Federal Aviation Administration 800 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20591 Re: Docket No. FAA-2026-4558: Designation—Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility Dear Ms. Ferritto: The North Carolina Poultry Federation (NCPF) appreciates the opportunity to submit comments on the Federal Aviation Administration’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), “Designation—Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility.” North Carolina is one of the nation’s leading poultry-producing states, and our member integrators and producers play a vital role in supporting the state’s economy, rural communities, and the national food supply. NCPF strongly supports the NPRM and the establishment of a clear, practical process for operators and proprietors of eligible facilities—including poultry farms and processing facilities—to request and maintain unmanned aircraft flight restrictions (UAFRs). Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are important tools for modern agriculture, including for monitoring facilities, improving efficiency, and enhancing animal care. However, as the technology has become more widely accessible, misuse has also increased. Poultry operations, in particular, have been targeted by outside groups using drones to capture aerial footage for activist campaigns. These activities often occur without permission and without regard for animal welfare, farm operations, or biosecurity protocols. Low-altitude drone activity over poultry houses can stress birds, disrupt ventilation systems, and interfere with normal management practices. More importantly, the movement of drones between farms presents a legitimate biosecurity risk. At a time when the industry continues to combat Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and other animal health threats, preventing unnecessary and uncontrolled aerial access to poultry facilities is a prudent and necessary measure. Beyond farm-level impacts, North Carolina’s poultry sector is a critical component of the nation’s food system. Disruptions caused by unauthorized drone activity—whether through repeated surveillance, interference with operations, or security breaches—can have broader consequences for supply chains, market stability, and consumer confidence. Additionally, unauthorized drone use poses risks related to the exposure of proprietary technologies and production practices, as well as potential vulnerabilities in food system security. The NPRM appropriately balances the continued responsible use of drones with the need to protect sensitive infrastructure. Providing a transparent pathway for eligible facilities to request targeted flight restrictions is a commonsense approach to mitigating risk while preserving legitimate commercial, governmental, and authorized UAS operations. For these reasons, the North Carolina Poultry Federation supports the FAA’s proposed rule and encourages the Agency to finalize it expeditiously. Strengthening protections around poultry and food production facilities will enhance biosecurity, safeguard animal health and welfare, protect critical agricultural infrastructure, and reinforce the resilience of the U.S. food supply. Thank you for your consideration of these comments. NCPF stands ready to provide additional information or industry perspective to assist the Agency. Respectfully submitted, Summer Lanier Executive Director NC Poultry Federation