‘Growing threats’: New measures after 2,000 drone reports over NFL stadiums

A new bill aims to tackle a sharp rise in drone incursions at sports stadiums in the United States, answering the call from the NFL and other major sports leagues.

On Thursday President Donald Trump signed the National Defense Authorization Act into law, which included the Safer Skies Act. That new legislation hands new powers to local and state officers to guard the airspace around stadiums.

Incredibly, more than 2,000 unauthorized drones have been recorded at NFL stadiums in the past three seasons. Those incursions are defined as drones that fly within three nautical miles of a stadium below 3,000 feet, according to the FAA’s guidelines.

“We thank President Trump and our Congressional champions from both political parties who took decisive action to keep fans safe,” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said. “With a rising number of drones flying in restricted airspace, it is critical that state and local law enforcement have the tools to prevent harm. This important step will help protect fans at stadiums across the country.”

Aside from the NFL, the new legislation can be applied to a variety of major events coming up in the coming years. Next summer will be headlined by the World Cup and the 250th anniversary of the United States of America.

Following that, the U.S. will host the Women’s World Cup in 2027 and the Olympic Games are coming to Los Angeles in 2028. All are expected to receive protection from local and state law enforcement officials, who can now receive the same anti-drone training as federal agents.

“As drones become more common, the risk of them causing disruptions or being used for malicious activities at sporting events only grows stronger,” Sen. Gary Peters told ESPN. “Law enforcement officials must be able to protect stadiums in their communities from these growing threats, especially as the United States prepares to host next summer’s FIFA World Cup and the upcoming 2028 LA Olympics.”

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