The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is taking a strong stance against reckless drone operators, issuing over $341,000 in proposed penalties against 27 individuals between October 2022 and June 2024. The agency highlights the growing concern over unsafe drone operation, emphasizing the potential risks to both those in the air and on the ground.
One particularly alarming case occurred in Florida in 2021, where a drone pilot flew dangerously close to a Pasco County Sheriff’s Office helicopter, forcing the pilot to take evasive action to avoid a collision. This incident, resulting in a $32,700 penalty proposal, highlights the seriousness of such violations. The drone pilot had also failed to register their device and exceeded the permitted altitude of 400 feet, further exacerbating the violation.
Another recurring issue involves drones flown near or over sporting events. A drone operator received a $16,000 fine for flying near SoFi Stadium during Super Bowl LVI in February 2022. The FAA has long prohibited drone flights near locations like airports, military bases, and critical infrastructure, including nuclear power plants. These restrictions are especially stringent during events with large crowds, such as major sporting games.
FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker recently emphasized the gravity of these violations, stating, “Violating the drone regulations puts lives at risk in the air and on the ground. Flying a small drone means you are flying an aircraft, and unsafe behavior will cost you.”
To help drone pilots understand the regulations and ensure safe operation, the FAA recommends utilizing their B4UFLY app, available for both iOS and Android devices. The app provides clear guidelines on permitted flight areas and serves as a valuable resource for responsible drone operation.
