The FBI in Atlanta and its law enforcement partners said it seized 15 drones ahead of Monday’s FIFA World Cup match between Spain and Cabo Verde.
There is a temporary flight restriction (TFR) in place over Atlanta Stadium, and the FAA expanded the size and height of the TFR for Monday compared to previous FIFA World Cup event days. TFR’s are also in place in Macon and Kennesaw.
Here’s a kink to FAA TFR map for Georgia: https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr3/?page=list
In a press release, the FBI said it had seized 13 drones where pilots were violating the TFR near the stadium and Centennial Olympic Park. One subject was arrested on unrelated charges after flying in the No Drone Zone.
Pilots can face fines of up to $100,000 and be charged with federal criminal felonies and misdemeanors as well. Unsafe and improper use of a drone (Unmanned Aircraft System or UAS) poses a physical hazard to other aircraft and crowds on the ground. They can also violate federal law, the press release said.
Before every flight, drone pilots are encouraged to check for active flight restrictions using the FAA-approved B4UFLY app, the press release said.
The public is encouraged to report unsafe or improper drone use by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov.
