If you are planning to fly into one of the 12 U.S. municipalities hosting FIFA World Cup soccer matches this summer, check those NOTAMs carefully—especially if you fly a drone.
On Friday, May 29, the FAA issued drone-only temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) for “FIFA [team] base camps, including designated hotels and practice facilities. The restrictions cover a 1-nautical-mile radius up to 400 feet above ground level around each location.”
The TFRs are in place from June 1 until July 21.
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The cities/areas involved are Atlanta, Seattle, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Missouri, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, and San Francisco.
“The FAA exempts drone operations that directly support national defense, homeland security, law enforcement, firefighting or search-and-rescue missions,” the NOTAM reads. “Commercial operators with a valid statement of work must submit requests at least 72 hours before operating within a restricted area to allow for coordination and approval.”
Drones (unmanned aerial vehicles/UAVs) are banned as a security measure, as federal officials, including the FAA and FBI, view unauthorized drones as a potential threat.
In the past sports teams have banned drones overflying their practices to prevent the unauthorized recording of drills, plays, and strategies and obtaining photos and video of players without their permission.
Drone operators who violate the TFR can face federal criminal charges and civil fines of up to $100,000 and have their drones confiscated.
