FAA bans unauthorized drones along US-Mexico border

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has imposed a temporary flight restriction barring unauthorized drones within 400 feet of the ground and one nautical mile north of the US-Mexico border, citing security concerns. This decision comes as part of the government's efforts to curb illegal cross-border drug shipments. In April, the FAA and the Pentagon signed an agreement to allow the use of a high-energy laser counter-drone system along the southern US border with Mexico to address drone threats.

According to Pentagon data, there are over 1,000 drone incursions along the US-Mexico border each month. Security officials have expressed growing alarm over the use of drones by Mexican cartels to transport drugs or monitor trafficking routes. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that restricting unauthorized drone activity would enhance commanders' awareness, decision-making capabilities, and defensive options for the homeland, stating that the military will shoot down any cartel drone threatening America's sovereignty.

In February, the FAA temporarily halted airport operations at El Paso, Texas, due to the Pentagon's laser system use without an FAA safety review. The restriction was lifted after eight hours following a White House intervention. Subsequently, the US military shot down a Customs and Border Protection drone using the laser-based system, prompting the FAA to expand the restricted area around Fort Hancock, Texas.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin stated that the restrictions would help counter cartel drone threats, protect personnel, and bolster security in the airspace above the border. Earlier this year, reports suggested drones were spotted over Fort McNair in Washington, where Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Hegseth reside.

In May, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford clarified that the counter-drone system is solely used along the southern border and not at Fort McNair, near Reagan Washington National Airport.