ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Federal and local law enforcement agencies are reminding drone operators that a strict No Drone Zone will be in effect throughout the 2026 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
The warning comes from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the Albuquerque Police Department, which say a temporary flight restriction will be enforced from October 3 through October 11 to protect the safety of pilots, crews, spectators and event personnel.
Under the restriction, drone operations will be prohibited within a four-mile radius of Balloon Fiesta Park and up to 8,000 feet in altitude during the nine-day event.
Officials say unauthorized drone flights pose significant risks to the hundreds of balloons that take part in the world’s largest hot air balloon event each year. The agencies also noted that most drones operating in U.S. airspace are required to comply with Remote ID requirements and that authorities have multiple methods of detecting unauthorized drone activity.
Federal officials say enforcement will be active throughout the event. Drone operators found violating the temporary flight restriction could face FAA investigations, civil penalties, loss of operating privileges and potential criminal charges.
According to the agencies, penalties can include fines of up to $75,000 per violation, while criminal cases could result in fines of up to $100,000 and up to one year in federal prison.
The FBI, FAA and APD say trained personnel and counter-drone resources will be deployed around Balloon Fiesta Park during the event.
Officials encourage drone operators to review current airspace restrictions before flying and report any unauthorized drone activity to law enforcement.
