FAA Imposes Drone Flight Ban Along U.S.-Mexico Border

The FAA announced Friday that unauthorized drone flights are banned along the U.S.-Mexico border under a temporary flight restriction. It took effect immediately and covers airspace from the surface to 400 feet above ground level within one nautical mile north of the boundary.

The Transportation Department, Homeland Security Department, and Department of War issued the announcement together.

According to the FAA, the restriction responds to unauthorized drone activity it links to criminal operations near the border. Agency officials said it also backs ongoing security efforts and adds protection for people and facilities in the area. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the step is meant to counter cartel drone threats and improve security in the border airspace.

The restriction follows several recent events tied to military counter-drone activity in the region. Earlier this year, airspace near El Paso was shut down temporarily over concerns about laser-based counter-drone systems. In February, military personnel mistakenly downed a Customs and Border Protection drone near Fort Hancock, Texas. After a safety review, federal officials cleared high-energy laser systems for use in the area.

The FAA said it will publish a NOTAM with links to further restriction details and its UAS Data Delivery System. The announcement did not say how long the new restriction will stay in force.