US imposes temporary drone flight restrictions along southern border

The US Departments of Transportation, Defense and Homeland Security on Friday announced a coordinated initiative to strengthen airspace security along the US-Mexico border, imposing temporary flight restrictions on unauthorized drone operations.

The temporary flight restriction (TFR), which takes effect Friday, will bar any unauthorized drone activity up to 400 feet (122 meters) above ground level and extend one nautical mile (1.9 kilometers) north of the US-Mexico border.

According to the statement, the new measure is intended to reduce risks to border security operations, protect federal personnel and facilities, and counter what the administration describes as threats posed by drug cartels and other illicit activities.

US Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said the measure builds on President Donald Trump’s efforts to strengthen border security and address drone-related threats.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the restrictions would provide military commanders with greater awareness of potential threats and more options for responding to drone activity.

“The United States government will maintain 100% operational control of our border: land, air, and sea,” Hegseth said.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the initiative would build on the administration’s border security efforts and help protect federal personnel while countering drone threats.

“This action will help counter cartel drone threats, protect our personnel, and strengthen security in the airspace above the border,” Mullin said.