By Gina Yarbrough
San Diego, CA–Federal and local authorities are reminding drone operators that restrictions on unmanned aircraft are in effect during San Diego Comic-Con International.
A temporary “No Drone Zone” is in place July 24 through July 26. The restrictions are centered on the San Diego Convention Center and extend to areas including the Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village, parts of Coronado and the San Diego-Coronado Bridge.
The Federal Aviation Administration has established a temporary flight restriction under federal regulation 99.7 for unmanned aircraft systems. The restriction is in effect from 9:30 a.m. July 24 through 7 p.m. July 26 and covers a 1-nautical-mile radius around the designated area, extending up to 400 feet in altitude.
Authorities said operating a drone in restricted airspace is illegal and could pose a danger to public safety.
Drone operators are urged to check for active flight restrictions through an FAA-approved B4UFLY service provider. These free services provide near-real-time information on temporary flight restrictions and other restricted airspace.
Most drones operating in U.S. airspace are also required to broadcast Remote ID information. Authorities warned that disabling Remote ID or failing to comply with the requirements constitutes a separate federal violation and could result in additional penalties. Law enforcement can use multiple methods to detect drones, whether or not Remote ID is being broadcast.
The FBI is coordinating with the FAA, the Transportation Security Administration’s Federal Air Marshal Service, the Port of San Diego Harbor Police Department and the San Diego Police Department to enforce the temporary flight restrictions. Authorized counter-drone technology is being used to detect and stop unauthorized drone activity under the SAFER SKIES Act.
Drone operators found violating federal regulations may be referred to the FAA for investigation. The FAA has recently strengthened its enforcement priorities, and drones that endanger the public, operate in restricted airspace or are used in connection with criminal activity may result in mandatory enforcement action.
Violators could face drone confiscation, revocation of pilot certificates and civil fines 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.
The public is encouraged to report unauthorized or unsafe drone activity to 911, on-site law enforcement or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or through the FBI’s online tip system. Tips may be submitted anonymously.
