The federal government has prohibited drone activity above and around Northwest Stadium in Landover for the annual Army-Navy Game Saturday.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland announced a temporary flight restriction for the game that will kick off around 3 p.m. The area is considered a “No Drone Zone” for a two-nautical-mile radius around the stadium and up to 2,000 feet above ground level.
“Drone operators need to know that we take seriously any incursion in the restricted airspace around the Army-Navy Game. Such incursions threaten the safety of those involved. We will investigate and prosecute anyone who violates the no drone zone,” said U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron.
The flight restriction comes after several reports of unexplained drone activity along the East Coast. The “pea-size” flying objects have been spotted in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania — with one of the latest sightings in Maryland by former Governor Larry Hogan.
Hogan said he spotted “dozens” of drones over his home Thursday night and posted a video to social media Friday, saying he personally witnessed and videoed what appeared to be large drones in the sky above his home in Davidsonville, Maryland in Anne Arundel County. Hogan says the drones were active for about 45 minutes.
Last night, beginning at around 9:45 pm, I personally witnessed (and videoed) what appeared to be dozens of large drones in the sky above my residence in Davidsonville, Maryland (25 miles from our nation’s capital). I observed the activity for approximately 45 minutes.
Like… pic.twitter.com/Ipx8ctLmhs
— Governor Larry Hogan (@GovLarryHogan) December 13, 2024
A large number of drones have been reported flying over parts of New Jersey in recent weeks, sparking speculation and concern over who sent them and why. Law enforcement officials have stressed that the drones don’t appear to be a threat to public safety, but many state and municipal lawmakers have nonetheless called for stricter rules about who can fly the unmanned aircraft.
About 62,000 people are expected to pack Northwest Stadium for the 125th matchup between service academies. The government is taking steps to ensure the safe of those spectators, that will include President-elect Donald Trump.
Anyone who attempts to fly a drone in any prohibited manner may be subject to arrest, prosecution, fines and/or imprisonment.
“The Army-Navy game is a time-honored tradition among our nation’s military, anticipated by both armed forces and football fans alike. We are committed to keeping everyone safe as they enjoy Saturday’s game,” said William J. DelBagno, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Baltimore Field Office. “Please be aware that no drones are allowed in or near the stadium for the safety of all participants and spectators.”
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