‘No drone zone' during RNC midterm convention, UAV flights restricted

Federal agencies want to make sure people are aware of a temporary flight restriction while President Trump is in North Texas.

Federal officials are restricting drone flights over much of North Texas during President Trump's visit to Dallas this week for the RNC midterm convention.

The Transportation Security Administration’s Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS), U.S. Secret Service, FBI and U.S. Customs and Border Protection are warning UAV pilots about temporary flight restrictions beginning Tuesday and running through Friday.

The Federal Aviation Administration has restricted all UAV flights within a three-mile radius of the American Airlines Center and in other locations where the president may be present while in North Texas.

Violating those temporary flight restrictions is considered illegal and dangerous and unauthorized drone operators may face serious consequences, including confiscation of their drones, revocation of pilot certificates and civil penalties of up to $75,000 per violation.

Law enforcement agencies may also pursue criminal penalties, including fines of up to $100,000 and up to one year in federal prison.

Drone operators should check for active flight restrictions before flying by using an FAA-approved B4UFLY service provider. These free tools provide near real-time information on TFRs and restricted airspace.