|
JIATF-401, in Support
of Interagency Task Force, Emphasizes Zero-Tolerance Policy, Cracks Down on
Drones in Restricted Airspace March 20, 2026 In
support of The White House Task Force to Restore American Airspace
Sovereignty, the DOJ, DHS, FAA, and DOW warn that any individual or group
found operating an unauthorized 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, our military and law enforcement agencies
are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to detect unauthorized drone
activity, often before it becomes a visible threat. This technology allows
authorities to not only detect an unauthorized drone but also to quickly and
precisely locate the operator. "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." 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 $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 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 DHS'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." These
extensive security measures are in place to ensure that public events and
critical facilities can operate safely and without disruption. JIATF-401 and
the DOW are urging everyone to cooperate with security personnel and respect
all airspace restrictions to avoid facing penalties. |
