FBI Dallas has issued a warning to drone operators regarding temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) that will be implemented around FIFA World Cup 2026 stadiums, fan festivals, and other event locations in North Texas. Flying a drone in these restricted zones is a federal crime, carrying potential penalties of up to $100,000 in fines, prison time, and drone confiscation.
Nine FIFA World Cup 2026 matches are scheduled at AT&T Stadium from June 14 through July 14, 2026. TFRs will be in effect during this period, and additional restrictions are anticipated over the Fan Fest at Dallas Fair Park. These restrictions are crucial for protecting fans, players, and critical infrastructure like power lines and cell phone towers from accidents and security threats posed by unsafe drone use.
The FBI is authorized to use counter-UAS capabilities to mitigate unauthorized drone activity and will work with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to enforce these restrictions. FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock said, "The FBI will use its full suite of investigative and intelligence capabilities to ensure that FIFA World Cup 2026 events are safe for all participants and attendees. We will identify drone operators who are violating temporary flight restrictions, seize their drones, and support prosecution to the fullest extent possible."
Drone operators are advised to check for active flight restrictions before every flight using an FAA-approved B4UFLY service provider, available at faa.gov/uas/getting_started/b4ufly. Media organizations, commercial operators, and public safety agencies requiring authorized drone operations within restricted airspace must obtain advance FAA authorization. Unsafe drone activity should be reported immediately by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI.