Key facts
- The FBI seized over 600 drones flying in restricted airspace during the World Cup in the US.
- Drones were captured across all 11 US host cities, including Miami, Atlanta, and Kansas City.
- Violations of temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) can result in civil fines up to $75,000, criminal fines up to $100,000, and up to a year in prison.
- The FBI utilized specialized drone mitigation teams and technology to intercept unauthorized UAVs.
- At least two individuals have been charged with federal offenses related to drone operation during the tournament.
The FBI has reported seizing over 600 drones that were illegally flying in restricted airspace around World Cup games across the United States since the tournament commenced in June. These seizures occurred in all 11 US host cities, with significant numbers captured in Miami (99), Atlanta (77), and Kansas City (32).
Ahead of the tournament, the FBI announced its intention to enforce Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) around stadiums and related fan event locations. The agency warned that violations could lead to substantial civil and criminal penalties, including fines up to $100,000 and potential jail time, in addition to the confiscation of the drones.
The FBI deployed specialized drone mitigation teams and technology to monitor, track, and intercept unauthorized unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The high number of seizures indicates that many drone operators disregarded the warnings.
US attorneys emphasized the dangers and illegality of flying drones in these restricted zones. R Matthew Price, US Attorney for Kansas City, stated his office's commitment to keeping skies drone-free and holding violators accountable. Similarly, Ryan Raybould, US Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, stressed the duty to protect fans and citizens from drone interference.
Among those arrested, one man faces charges for operating a drone over a stadium during a match without an airman's certificate, while another was charged with operating an unregistered aircraft. The FBI has generally kept its interception techniques confidential but confirmed the use of advanced technology.
Other reported seizure numbers include 48 in Los Angeles, 29 in Seattle, 63 in Dallas, 40 in New York, and 33 in Houston. Newark reported the lowest number with nine interceptions. The tournament's security planning, supported by a $625 million allocation from FEMA, includes extensive federal and local law enforcement coordination, particularly for the final designated as a national special security event.