The FBI says it will prosecute anyone who flies drones or other aircraft within five miles of the Great State of Maine Airshow at Brunswick Landing this weekend.

While a no-fly zone is routine for the annual event and there have been no issues at past air shows, Brunswick Police Chief Scott Stewart said, adding that his department is trying to get the word out due to the popularity of personal drones used for photography and video.

“The FBI has been working directly with Brunswick PD in planning the security/safety for the Air Show and stated that they will prosecute those that choose to not follow the no-fly restriction,” Stewart said.

The no-fly zone issued by the Federal Aviation Administration will be in effect from from 11:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sept 2. and between 12 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Sept. 3-5.

Drones are typically used by the public to get aerial footage and photographs and are controlled remotely. They are also referred to as unmanned aircraft systems, or UAS. All other aircraft are also included in the ban.

The Federal Aviation Administration states that there are over 868,000 registered drones in the United States, around 518,000 of which are registered for recreational purposes. According to a 2021 article by Business Insider, the drone services market is expected to grow to $63.6 billion by 2025.

This story was updated at 3:45 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 1 to correct the dates and times the ban will be in effect. The no-fly zone begins Sept 2. from 11:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is also in effect Sept. 3-5 between 12 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

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