Pope Visit 2015: FAA Bans Drones in Philadelphia-Area Skies

By DEB BELT

Heightened security in place for Pope Francis’ visit to the United States has prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to ban drone flights Sept. 22-27 in the Washington, DC, New York, and Philadelphia metro areas.

“If you plan to attend any of the Papal visit events, please leave your drone at home,” said FAA Administrator Michael Huerta in a release. “Anyone flying a drone within the designated restricted areas may be subject to civil and criminal charges.”

The FAA has flight restrictions in place in and around Washington, DC, New York and Philadelphia. Flying a drone anywhere Pope Francis will visit is against the law. During his DC visit that includes the National Mall, he Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and the U.S. Capitol.

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Guide to Pope Francis Visit to Philadelphia

Any unmanned aircraft – including radio-controlled model aircraft, as well as drone – are included in the FAA’s ban.

The airspace around Washington, D.C., is more restricted than in any other part of the country. The FAA temporarily has expanded restrictions for all aircraft, including drones, to include Potomac Airfield, College Park, and Washington Executive/Hyde Park airports.

Check this map to see where no-drone zones are in place.

Pope Francis will fly into Joint Base Andrews Tuesday afternoon, and be welcomed at the White House by President Obama on Wednesday morning. He will greet thousands that afternoon on the National Mall, then speak to a joint session of Congress on Thursday before flying to New York.