Transportation (Airports)

SB 49 creates new criminal penalties for the unlawful operation of small drones (unmanned aircraft systems) in New Hampshire. It makes it a misdemeanor to interfere with emergency services (like police or fire response) or airport operations, and increases penalties to a felony if drone use causes damage to aircraft, disrupts flights, or delivers contraband into correctional facilities. The bill also prohibits possessing or operating drones equipped to cause harm (e.g., firing projectiles), with exemptions for bomb squads and law enforcement using drones for safety purposes. These rules apply to anyone operating small drones, effective January 1, 2026.