News reports or FAA enforcement actions

Pete Buttigieg Restricts Private Drones Over Hurricane Helene Areas in Western North Carolina

Oct 3, 2024, 02:35 PM

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg has announced restrictions on private drones flying over areas affected by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina. The restrictions are intended to prevent interference with emergency responders' efforts. Buttigieg emphasized that people should rely on professional emergency responders instead of using personal drones to assist in rescue and recovery operations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions) that restricts unauthorized flights into Western North Carolina, further limiting civilian efforts to aid in the disaster response.