WASHINGTON (Kashmir English): The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has barred drone flights over FIFA World Cup 2026 sites and related fan events across the US, to fortify security.
During match days, all aircraft operations, including drones, are prohibited within a radius of three nautical miles and up to 3,000 feet above ground level around the stadiums unless specifically authorized by air traffic controllers.
According to the authorities, drone operators will face fines up to 100,000 dollars and criminal charges for violations.
Drones will be barred within a one-nautical-mile radius and up to 1,000 feet above ground level for fan events throughout the country.
According to US Federal Aviation Administration, drone operators who enter restricted airspace without approval can face fines of up to $100,000, along with criminal charges and confiscation of the drone.
The FBI also has drone mitigation teams that will be stationed around World Cup stadiums as an added layer of protection.
According to New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the department had received new authority “to work with our federal partners … to confront credible drone threats at major events.”
She added that, “Over the past several months, we have purchased $6.5 million in drone-mitigation equipment.”
According to her, drones can easily be adapted as “weapons of war” and New York is on guard across events for the 250th anniversary of the US.
2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will begin on June 11, 2026 (Thursday) and conclude with the final on Sunday, 19 July 2026.
The historic 48-team tournament will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The event will feature a total of 104 matches.
