FAA Takes Steps to Ensure Drone Operators Follow Airspace Regulations
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed $341,413 in civil penalties against 27 individuals who violated federal drone regulations between October 2022 and June 2024. These penalties are part of the FAA’s ongoing efforts to ensure that drone operators are aware of and adhere to airspace regulations.
Increased Penalties for Violations
Under the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, the agency has the authority to impose fines of up to $75,000 per violation for unsafe or unauthorized drone operations. The FAA can also suspend or revoke the pilot certificates of those found in violation.
“Violating the drone regulations puts lives at risk in the air and on the ground,” said FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker. “Flying a small drone means you are flying an aircraft, and unsafe behavior will cost you.”
The FAA has made it clear that drone operators must follow established guidelines to ensure safety. The agency encourages the public to report any unsafe or unauthorized drone activities to their local Flight Standards District Office. All reports are reviewed, and investigations are initiated when appropriate.
Enforcement Actions and Penalties
The FAA has not disclosed the identities of those facing penalties. However, the agency has highlighted several significant cases, underscoring the serious nature of the violations:
- A $32,700 penalty was proposed against an individual in Wesley Chapel, Florida, who interfered with a law enforcement operation on September 22, 2021. The operator flew an improperly registered and unlit drone dangerously close to a Pasco County Sheriff’s Office helicopter, forcing the pilot to halt a search for a burglary suspect. The individual lacked a Remote Pilot Certificate, operated the drone at night without anti-collision lighting, and exceeded the 400-foot altitude limit.
- A $18,200 penalty was proposed against an operator who flew an unregistered drone during the Miami Grand Prix, a Formula 1 event, on May 7, 2022. The operator violated several FAA regulations, including disregarding a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR), operating in Class D airspace without authorization, and not maintaining visual line of sight.
- Two individuals were fined $16,000 and $4,000 respectively for operating drones near SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, during Super Bowl LVI on February 13, 2022. The airspace was classified as national defense airspace at the time. Both operators flew in Class B airspace without authorization and without Remote Pilot Certificates.
- A $7,760 penalty was proposed against an individual who operated an unregistered drone inside Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio, on January 15, 2022. The operator flew the drone over a crowd during an NFL game at night, beyond visual line of sight, and without a Remote Pilot Certificate.
- A $5,000 penalty was proposed against an operator in Little Rock, Arkansas, who created a collision hazard by flying a drone close to a helicopter on July 30, 2022. The drone crashed after experiencing rotor wash from the helicopter, and the operator did not possess a Remote Pilot Certificate.
Collaborating with Law Enforcement
The FAA’s actions are part of a broader initiative to ensure compliance with airspace regulations. The agency works closely with law enforcement through its Law Enforcement Assistance Program (LEAP) to assist local authorities in prosecuting unlawful drone operations. By holding operators accountable, the FAA aims to maintain the safety and security of the national airspace.
The FAA continues to provide resources and education to help drone operators fly safely. As drone usage grows, the agency remains committed to enforcing regulations that protect both the air and ground environments from potential hazards.
