Federal agencies remind public of drone restrictions during RNC Midterm Convention

DALLAS - The Transportation Security Administration's Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS), U.S. Secret Service, FBI and U.S. Customs and Border Protection remind the public that unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, are restricted during the Republican National Committee's (RNC) Midterm Convention.

Building on the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) success in helping ensure a secure experience for attendees at the FIFA World Cup 2026™, President Donald J. Trump and DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin remain committed to supporting the same high level of safety and security for the RNC Midterm Convention on Sept. 9 and 10.

In coordination with aviation security partners, a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) has been established for duration of the two-day event. For safety and security reasons, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has restricted drone flights within a 3-mile radius of the designated area and up to an altitude of 400 feet. Flying a drone in restricted airspace is illegal and dangerous.

The applicable FAA flight restrictions for the RNC Midterm Convention are available here.

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.

Most drones operating in U.S. airspace are also required to broadcast Remote ID, a digital identification system for drones. Disabling Remote ID or failing to comply with Remote ID requirements is a separate federal violation and may result in additional penalties. Authorities may use multiple methods to detect unauthorized drone activity, whether or not Remote ID is broadcasting.

FAMS is coordinating with federal, state and local partners to support enforcement of the TFR and help protect event venues. Authorized counter-UAS capabilities may be used, consistent with federal law, to detect and stop unauthorized drone activity. Trained personnel and partner agencies, including the Dallas Police Department, will be positioned to support safety and security operations.

Drone safety is everyone's responsibility. Anyone who observes unauthorized or unsafe drone activity during the convention should report it immediately to 911 or on-site law enforcement.

The safety and security of attendees, employees, visitors and the surrounding community remain the top priority. Drone operators can help ensure a safe and secure RNC Midterm Convention by knowing the rules, respecting No Drone Zones and complying with all airspace restrictions.

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