The United States defence, justice and homeland security departments and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) warned on Friday that any individual or group found operating an unauthorised drone within designated restricted airspace will face severe consequences.
“As drone use continues to grow, we are stepping up enforcement and drone pilots are expected to follow FAA regulations just like any other pilot,” said FAA Chief Counsel Liam McKenna. “Those who choose to ignore the rules will face serious consequences, including substantial fines, revocation of their airman certificate and even criminal penalties.”
To enforce this zero-tolerance policy, the agencies will use detection technology to spot unauthorised drone activity, which may be before it becomes a visible threat. This technology enables authorities to locate the drone operator as well as detect the drone itself. “If you fly an illegal drone, you will be caught,” Director of JIATF-401, U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross added. “We have highly trained personnel and sophisticated tools to safely and effectively mitigate any drone threat. This is a true whole-of-government effort, and our number one priority is the safety of the American public.”
The defence department said that violators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Penalties for flying a drone in a restricted zone can include significant fines upwards of USD 100,000, federal criminal charges, imprisonment and the confiscation of the drone. The SAFER SKIES Act authorizes state, local, tribal and territorial law enforcement to detect, disable or seize any drone that poses a credible security threat to public safety.
Members of The White House’s Task Force to Restore American Airspace Sovereignty are also calling on the public to be partners in safety. “We are counting on the public to be our eyes and ears,” Executive Director of the Department of Homeland Security’s Program Executive Office for Drones and Counter-UAS Steven Willoughby, stated. “If you see something, say something. Please report any suspicious activity, including drone use, to the nearest law enforcement officer or by calling 911.”
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Image: (US Air Force photo by Peter Borys)
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