The Federal Aviation Administration recently sent out a notice that warns the public to stop weaponizing their drones with dangerous weapons.
The government agency sent the notice out this Thursday, reminding people that it is illegal to weaponize their drones. The notice really comes as a warning to drone owners. The notice says it is illegal to “operate a drone with a dangerous weapon attached.” The FAA defines a dangerous weapon as “any item that is used for, or is readily capable of, causing death or serious bodily injury.”
“Perhaps you’ve seen online photos and videos of drones with attached guns, bombs, fireworks, flamethrowers, and other dangerous items,” the FAA writes. “Do not consider attaching any items such as these to a drone because operating a drone with such an item may result in significant harm to a person and to your bank account.”
Weaponizing drones is a violation of the law
Operating a drone that’s carrying a dangerous weapon is a violation of Section 363 of the 2018 FAA Reauthorization Act. Violating Section 363 can result in fines of up to $25,000 for each violation. However, there is an exception. The FAA says drone operators won’t be fined as long as they receive “specific authorization from the Administrator of the FAA to conduct the operation.”
Other state and federal laws that restrict the use of weapons could additionally apply to weaponizing drones.
This is happening more than you might think
There are some in the United States that have weaponized their drones. For instance, a hobbyist from Connecticut has attached pistols and flamethrowers to drones. Regardless, the FAA feels the need to remind the public not to weaponize their drones. We support whatever leads to safe drone flight for all.
Image courtesy Throwflame
