Federal authorities are urging drone operators to familiarise themselves with airspace restrictions ahead of FIFA World Cup matches scheduled to take place in Seattle this summer.
The games run from mid-June through early July at Lumen Field, and the Federal Aviation Administration will close airspace for several miles around the stadium during each match. The restrictions will limit where and when drones can be operated in the surrounding area.
The FBI Seattle Field Office will be among the law enforcement agencies enforcing the no-fly rules. Special Agent Ben Williamson said authorities have the tools to track both drones and the people operating them. “We have the technical capability to locate the drone, locate the operator, and we will contact the operator of the drone,” Williamson said. “A lot of recreational fliers don’t know they’re flying in a restricted area so that’s why we’re trying to put the word out now to make sure you check before you fly.”
The FAA’s B4UFly service is available to help drone operators identify when Temporary Flight Restrictions are active in their area. During major events such as the World Cup, the FAA implements these restrictions to secure airspace and limit unauthorised air traffic around stadiums and crowds.
The warning follows an incident last month in which local and federal agencies tracked more than 30 unauthorised drones that violated airspace restrictions during the Seahawks’ Super Bowl parade. One pilot flew a drone directly into Lumen Field during the trophy ceremony. The King County Sheriff’s Office is pursuing charges against that pilot, and prosecutors say the case remains under review.
Williamson added that operators bear personal responsibility for knowing the rules. “It’s incumbent upon drone operators to know if they are flying in restricted airspace,” he said. Violations can result in state or federal charges and fines of up to $100,000.
