FBI issues warning to drone operators ahead of World Cup. Here’s what to know
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- FBI Kansas City warns flying drones in World Cup restricted airspace is a federal crime.
- Violations can carry up to $100,000 in fines and up to one year in prison.
- The FBI and FAA will detect, track, seize drones and enforce airspace rules.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is warning drone operators that flying in restricted airspace during World Cup-related events in Kansas City will be a federal crime, as officials prepare for increased security around stadiums, fan festivals and other venues.
FBI Kansas City urged the public to avoid flying drones in areas that will be designated as Temporary Flight Restrictions during the tournament, the agency said in a press release on Thursday.
“As teams from around the world convene in and around Kansas City for FIFA World Cup Matches, the United States Government will establish Temporary Flight Restrictions around the World Cup Stadiums, Fan Festivals and other events,” Chris Ormerod, FBI Kansas City special agent in charge, said in a release.
“Flying a drone in these areas is strictly prohibited. Flying in a restricted zone isn’t just dangerous, it’s a federal crime,” he said.
The release said violations of restricted airspace can carry penalties including up to $100,000 in fines, up to one year in prison and seizure of the drone. Officials emphasized that Temporary Flight Restrictions are used to protect fans, players and critical infrastructure from both accidents and potential security threats.
The agency said it works with the Federal Aviation Administration to enforce the restrictions and uses federally authorized counter-drone capabilities to detect, track and assess unauthorized drone activity.
Officials from both agencies are expected to be deployed during World Cup events to monitor airspace around venues, the release said.
“The FBI is legally authorized to use counter-UAS capabilities to detect, assess, and mitigate unauthorized drone activity within restricted airspace, while preserving evidence for potential enforcement action,” officials said.
Officials urged drone operators to check for active flight restrictions before any flight using FAA-approved tools such as the B4UFLY app and other airspace awareness services.
