US Imposes Drone Flight Restrictions Along Border With Mexico

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The US Transportation Department announced Friday that it’s immediately barring unauthorized drones from flying along the US border with Mexico to help with ongoing security missions, including against illicit cartel activity.

The temporary flight restriction will prohibit unsanctioned drone operations at altitudes as high as 400 feet and will extend one nautical mile north of the border, according to the department, which said in a news release that it coordinated the move with the Pentagon and Department of Homeland Security.

“The new measure will reduce risks to ongoing border security operations, protect federal personnel, facilities and the Homeland, and enhance enforcement against those who violate the restrictions,” the department said.

The action comes as the different agencies have been trying to communicate better and align on efforts to counter drones after some fumbles near the border earlier this year involving the use of a high-energy laser.

The first incident resulted in the surprise closure of airspace around the international airport in El Paso, Texas and the second led to a US Customs and Border Protection drone being shot down by mistake.