New Drone? Don't Use It At National Championship Game

ATLANTA, GA — If you're thinking about checking out the scene around Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Monday with your drone, federal and local law enforcement have a simple message for you — don't.

The Federal Aviation Administration has issued flight restrictions above and near the stadium, where the University of Georgia and University of Alabama will compete for college football's national championship Monday night.

That restriction includes drones, which are becoming more and more popular and, with their built-in cameras, can be used to video-record and photograph big events like the crowds anticipated for the big game.

"We want to stress the importance by letting people know this is a violation of federal law, and if caught, violators will be prosecuted for flying drones in restricted space," said Kevin Rowson, a spokesman for the FBI in Atlanta.

President Donald Trump is expected to attend the championship game, which is just one of the reasons authorities are taking security measures so seriously.

College Football Championship: Georgia Vs. Alabama Time, TV, Odds

The FAA's temporary flight restrictions started Saturday and last through Monday night. They apply to all aircraft operations, "including including unmanned aircraft systems, model aircraft flights, and drones," said Atlanta Police Department spokesman Carlos Campos.

The restricted area has been one nautical mile from Mercedes-Benz Stadium and increases to three nautical miles during the game. Violators may be subject to state and federal prosecution, authorities said.

Also See: College Football Fans Party Ahead Of Championship Game

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