Drones are now restricted in the immediate vicinity of U.S. Navy vessels -- and those violating these new rules could face stiff penalties.
In a May 17 announcement, the Federal Aviation Administration said it’s limiting drone operations over some facilities and assets. According to the new special instructions, drones will be restricted in airspace up to 2,000 feet mean sea level near U.S. territorial and navigable waters.
The new restrictions also ban drones in this airspace within a stand-off distance of 3,000 feet laterally and 1,000 feet above any U.S. Navy vessel.
FAA said drone operators who break these rules could face enforcement action, including possible civil penalties and criminal charges. They could also have their unmanned aircraft seized or destroyed if these pose a threat to Navy assets.