WASHINGTON — The Federal Aviation Administration announced plans Friday to restrict unauthorized drone flights along the U.S.-Mexico border, covering airspace up to 400 feet above the ground.
The restricted strip would extend one nautical mile north of the border. The Transportation, Homeland Security and War departments said the measure would help protect federal personnel and border operations against drone threats, including cartel activity.
Two FAA documents give different start dates. The announcement says the restriction is effective Friday, but the agency’s operational notice lists Oct. 19, 2026, through Oct. 19, 2027.
Under that notice, drone operators seeking access must send a request to U.S. Customs and Border Protection at least 48 hours before they plan to fly.
CBP requires the operator’s name, telephone number and FAA certifications, along with the planned flight’s date, time and location. Requests must also include the drone’s Remote ID, make, model and serial number.
First responders and groups dealing with disasters or other time-sensitive emergencies may be able to arrange expedited coordination with CBP.
The FAA cautions that the map in its notice is only a guide. Pilots must check the individual flight notices, known as NOTAMs, for the full boundaries, dates, times and exceptions, and keep checking for changes.
Virginia Times has not independently verified those individual NOTAMs. The conflicting start dates in the FAA’s announcement and operational notice remain unresolved.
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