Following several months of numerous high-profile aviation accidents, new data suggest pilots are facing a specific threat when it comes to keeping airline passengers safe in the skies. 

Last year, drones accounted for approximately two-thirds of reported near-midair collisions with commercial aircraft taking off or landing within the country’s 30 busiest airports, according to the Associated Press. The findings come as aviation safety data indicate drones accounted for the highest number of near-misses since 2020, with the first reports dating back to 2014.

“The rise in recreational and commercial drone use has simply outpaced education and enforcement,” aviation attorney Jason Matzus told Fox News Digital. “More people are flying drones without fully understanding the rules or the risks.” 

In December, Boston police used Remote ID technology to find and arrest two men who flew a drone near Logan International Airport. 

Earlier this year, a “Super Scooper” plane fighting wildfires tearing through Southern California collided with a drone, forcing it to be removed from firefighting efforts for several days as the plane’s left wing was repaired. The 56-year-old pilot pleaded guilty to a federal charge of recklessly flying his aircraft and is awaiting sentencing. 

Drone operators found to be conducting unsafe operations could face fines of up to $75,000, according to the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024. 

“I believe commercial drone pilots and experienced hobbyists that want to keep the technology in good standing and a positive public perception keep their aircraft out of airport airspace,” McDanolds said. “There will always be individuals, even with enough media announcements, education and informing, who will choose to cause trouble.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.