politics
FBI seized more than 600 drones over restricted World Cup airspace
The FBI reported seizing more than 600 drones that flew in restricted airspace above World Cup venues in 11 U.S. host cities since the tournament began in June. Officials cited temporary flight restrictions and warned that violations can result in fines, imprisonment, or seizure of equipment.
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The FBI said it has seized more than 600 drones that entered restricted airspace above World Cup venues in 11 U.S. host cities since the tournament began in June. The agency reported 99 drones intercepted in Miami, 77 in Atlanta, and 32 in Kansas City, with additional seizures recorded in Los Angeles, Dallas, New York, Houston, Seattle, and Newark.
The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security conducted the interceptions under temporary flight restrictions issued by the Federal Aviation Administration. Those restrictions cover stadiums and related viewing sites for three hours before and after each scheduled match.
Enforcement measures The FBI stated it deployed specialized drone mitigation teams and technology to monitor, track, and intercept unauthorized unmanned aerial vehicles near restricted airspace. It warned that violations can result in civil fines up to $75,000, criminal fines up to $100,000, up to one year in prison, and seizure of the drone.
Two individuals have been charged in Dallas. One was charged with operating a drone without an airman’s certificate while a match was in progress. The second was charged with owning an unregistered aircraft that another person operated.
Security planning The FBI announced the enforcement policy before the tournament opened. Only the final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, has been designated a national special security event, which triggers additional federal coordination.
Federal Emergency Management Agency allocated $625 million to support security and emergency preparedness for the event. Cities in Mexico and Canada have also hosted matches during the tournament.
