The FBI reported on Thursday that U.S. agencies have seized more than 700 drones near FIFA World Cup venues and fan zones since the tournament began on June 11. Authorities stated that the unauthorized aircraft were intercepted across all 11 U.S. host cities due to violations of temporary flight restrictions.
Under current regulations, drone operations are prohibited within a three-nautical-mile radius and up to 3,000 feet above ground level around stadiums on match days. Similar restrictions apply to fan gatherings, where drones are barred within one nautical mile and up to 1,000 feet. The FBI has deployed specialized teams to detect and disable unauthorized drones entering these zones.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that several individuals have been arrested in connection with these incidents. Operators who violate the restricted airspace face potential criminal charges, drone confiscation, and fines of up to $100,000. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford stated that the seizures demonstrate the government's ability to identify users who enter prohibited airspace.
The FAA currently receives more than 100 reports of drones near airports each month. Following the World Cup incidents, the agency has proposed allowing operators of critical infrastructure, such as power plants and utility facilities, to petition for similar drone restrictions to enhance security at sensitive locations.