U.S. Federal Aviation Administration sent this bulletin at 06/17/2026 02:49 PM EDT
Week of June 15, 2026
FIFA World Cup No Drone Zones
A week into the World Cup and the FBI confiscated 146 drones and cited 63 operators from June 11 to June 16. As we work with our FBI partners, we want to remind World Cup fans to leave the drones at home! Temporary Flight Restrictions are in place around all major World Cup events, including matches and Fan Fest activities. Drone operators who enter restricted airspace without authorization can face fines of up to $100,000, drone confiscation and federal criminal charges. For more information, visit our FIFA World Cup 2026 webpage.
BNATCS 100th Voice Switch Upgrade
The Grand Junction Airport control tower in Colorado is receiving a new digital Voice Communication System (VCS). Grand Junction is the 100th facility to receive the communications technology upgrade. The new VCS replaces the analog systems from the 1990s and improves controller communications with aircraft, adjacent facilities and internal phone systems. Keep up with Brand New Air Traffic Control System updates and projects by visiting our interactive Modern Skies website.
FAA Deputy Administrator Visits North Carolina
This week, FAA Deputy Administrator Chris Rocheleau visited the Piedmont Triad International Airport control tower in Greensboro, North Carolina, to discuss the exciting upgrades coming as part of the Brand New Air Traffic Control System (BNATCS). Piedmont controllers can soon expect Surface Awareness Initiative technology, modern display systems, digital voice switches, electronic flight strips and a tower simulation system.
Also check out the Deputy Administrator’s OpEd on how the U.S. is leading the world into a new era of aviation innovation.
A Partnership in Action
At this week’s FAA-EASA International Aviation Safety Conference the FAA and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) agreed to strengthen their partnership to help ensure flying remains safe as the aviation industry introduces new technologies and innovations.
“This is one of the most innovative moments in aviation, not just for America but also for our international partners,”said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford.“Sharing information and fostering conversations about safety allow us to strengthen our international partnerships and ensure aviation systems evolve safely and efficiently.”
Administrator Bedford and Deputy Administrator Rocheleau both spoke at the three-day event in Chantilly, VA.
Frequent Flight Forecast
This holiday weekend, the FAA will manage around 355,000 flights with the peak travel day – Thursday – forecast to see almost 55,500 flights. For tips, information and data, visit our Summer Travel webpage.
