Metra Tests Remote Drones to Improve Rail Safety and Security

Metra launched a pilot program to use remotely operated drones to monitor rail lines and facilities. The program aims to improve safety and security and reduce response times to critical incidents, in alignment with the Northern Illinois Transit Authority’s mandate to improve public safety and coordinate incident response across the Chicago region’s public transit network.

Under the pilot, Metra purchased three Beyond Visual Line of Sight drones, which will be operated remotely and monitored by licensed Metra Police drone pilots. While Metra Police have used drones in the past, the remotely operated ones are intended to provide faster response and assessment capabilities.

Metra Executive Director/CEO Jim Derwinski said, “When an incident occurs along the railroad, our response times can be hampered by street traffic and distance. These drones and their expanded capabilities allow us to quickly get eyes on the scene and accurately assess the situation, so law enforcement, employees, and partner agencies can respond safely and effectively. They can also be used to assist our partners at CTA and Pace during service disruptions and security incidents if they are within range of our drones.”

The project is funded through a $620,000 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Transit Security Grant Program, which supports efforts to protect critical transportation infrastructure and the traveling public.