The US Federal Aviation Administration has announced strict airspace restrictions for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, banning drones over match venues and fan events across the country as part of a wider security plan.
Under the new rules, all aircraft operations, including drones, will be prohibited on match days within a three-nautical-mile radius of stadiums and up to 3,000 feet above ground level, unless specifically cleared by air traffic controllers.
The FAA has also imposed separate restrictions for fan zones and related gatherings. Drones will not be allowed within a one-nautical-mile radius and up to 1,000 feet above ground level around fan events nationwide.
Authorities warned that drone operators who enter restricted airspace without permission could face fines of up to $100,000, criminal charges, and confiscation of their equipment.
The move is part of a broader effort to strengthen security around one of the world’s biggest sporting events. The FBI is also expected to deploy drone mitigation teams around FIFA World Cup stadiums to add another layer of protection.
Officials in New York have already signaled heightened concern over drone threats ahead of major public events. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch recently said the city had received new authority to work with federal partners against credible drone threats and had spent $6.5 million on drone-mitigation equipment in recent months.
She warned that drones can be easily modified into weapons, adding to concerns around crowd safety at high-profile gatherings.
The latest restrictions come amid growing alarm in the US over unauthorized drone activity near airports and sporting events. In recent years, several operators have faced legal action for flying drones near major public events, including an NFL game and the Boston Marathon.
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