Releases Video Reminding UAV Operators That The Nation's Capital Is A 'No Drone Zone'

Spring in the Nation’s Capital brings with it the extraordinary beauty of the cherry trees blooming around the Tidal Basin. The FAA says visitors should shoot all the photos and video you want – but leave your drone at home.

In a video released late last week, the FAA reminds visitors to this year’s National Cherry Blossom Festival that the Washington, D.C., area is a NO DRONE ZONE.

The prohibition against flying any type of unmanned aircraft, or “drone,” without specific approval includes the District of Columbia and cities and towns within a 15-mile radius of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).

The FAA is conducting the “No Drone Zone” campaign so visitors and residents understand that operating an unmanned aircraft in this area – for any purpose – is against the law.

The airspace around Washington, D.C. is more restricted than in any other part of the country. Rules put in place after the 9/11 attacks establish “national defense airspace” over the area and limit aircraft operations to those with an FAA and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) authorization. Those who fly drones in the National Capital Region can face stiff fines and criminal penalties.

(Image provided with FAA news release)

FMI: www.faa.gov, Video