DALLAS, Texas — The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas and FBI Dallas are emphasizing drone safety and flight restrictions for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented Temporary Flight Restrictions over various locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex during the event, according to a press release from the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas. These restrictions will apply to all aircraft, including drones, and will be enforced over AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, known as “Dallas Stadium” during the World Cup, and Fair Park in Dallas, Texas, during the FIFA Fan Festival.

The restrictions at AT&T Stadium will cover a 3-nautical-mile radius up to 3,000 feet, effective three hours before and after each match. At Fair Park, the restrictions will span a 1-nautical-mile radius up to 1,000 feet, effective one hour before and after the festival each day.

Violators of these restrictions face federal prosecution, imprisonment, fines, and potential forfeiture of their drones, stated the press release. Drone pilots are reminded to register their drones, obtain necessary licenses, and familiarize themselves with airspace classifications to avoid violations.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould emphasized the importance of compliance, stating, “We want the 2026 FIFA World Cup fans to have a world-class time while they are in the DFW metroplex. When someone makes a decision to fly a drone over restricted airspace, they are wasting valuable law enforcement resources and jeopardizing the safety and overall experience of those who are there to watch the beautiful game.”

FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock added, “It is the drone operator’s responsibility to understand where Temporary Flight Restrictions exist. Before you fly a drone, I strongly encourage you to check for active flight restrictions using an FAA-approved B4UFLY service provider.”

The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted several individuals for illegal drone operations in restricted areas, with cases resulting in various sentences and fines. The office urges the public to report any drone violations to law enforcement or the FBI.

All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.