FAA Intensifies Actions Against Drone Violations: Operators Face Fines Up to $36,770
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has significantly intensified its enforcement actions against drone operators. On February 6, 2026, the FAA announced a series of steep fines and license revocations for unsafe and unauthorized operations that took place during 2025.
The FAA levied fines ranging from $1,771 to $36,770 across 18 operations for violations that occurred between 2023 and 2025. The largest fine of $36,770 was imposed on an operator who flew a drone near emergency response aircraft during a wildfire on April 4, 2023. Such a violation can ground firefighting helicopters and endanger lives.
“The FAA will take decisive action against drone operators who ignore safety rules or operate without authorization,” said FAA Chief Counsel Liam McKenna.
In addition to monetary penalties, the agency suspended or revoked licenses of eight remote pilots in 2025 for serious violations. These included incidents such as:
- A drone becoming entangled with a paraglider
- Multiple safety violations during a drone light show in Orlando
- Unauthorized flights in restricted airspace near Mar-a-Lago
In a major policy shift for 2026, the FAA updated its enforcement guidelines to require legal action when drone operations endanger the public, violate airspace restrictions, or are conducted in furtherance of another crime. Drone operators who fly unsafely or without permission can now face fines up to $75,000 per violation under the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024. The agency encourages the public to report unsafe drone operations to their local Flight Standards District Office.
Source: Federal Aviation Administration