The U.S. Department of Transportation, Department of War and Department of Homeland Security have imposed an immediate temporary flight restriction on unauthorised drone operations along the U.S.-Mexico border. The restriction covers airspace from the surface to 400 feet above ground level and extends one nautical mile north of the border, with the FAA expected to publish a supporting NOTAM.
The measure targets drone activity that could interfere with border-security operations, endanger federal personnel or facilities, or support illicit cartel activity. It applies specifically to unauthorised unmanned aircraft and does not create a general restriction on civil aviation in the area.
Drone operators must check applicable NOTAMs and the FAA’s UAS Data Delivery System before conducting flights and comply with all restrictions in force. The announcement did not identify individual border sectors, specify an expiry date or detail enforcement procedures.
The action follows expanded federal counter-drone activity along the southern border. In April, the FAA and Department of War completed a safety assessment of a high-energy laser system, determining that defined operating controls would not create undue risk to passenger aircraft. Earlier restrictions near Fort Hancock, Texas, followed an incident involving a counter-drone system.