An individual with knowledge of the conversation told The Associated Press that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell discussed the persistent security concern of drones on game days with congressional leaders on Monday.
According to the source, who spoke to the AP under anonymity because the talks were not made public, Goodell also attended a number of meetings with Josh Harris, the controlling owner of Washington Commanders, regarding the RFK stadium idea and other league issues.
Unauthorized drones are now an issue for several sports leagues. Last January, the AFC championship game in Baltimore was stopped due to a drone breaching the restricted airspace. In November 2023, a drone caused two delays during another game in Baltimore.
According to the NFL, 2,845 drones entered restricted airspace during 2023 games. Compared to 2,537 in 2022, that figure represented an increase.
During large athletic events with 30,000 or more seats, the Federal Aviation Administration forbids drones from operating within 3 nautical miles, or around 3.45 miles, near stadiums. The prohibition begins one hour prior to the commencement of a game or event and lasts until one hour following its conclusion.
For the Super Bowl in February of last year, the FAA prohibited drones within 30 nautical miles, or around 35 miles, of Allegiant Stadium.
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