The Indiana Department of Homeland Security, along with local and federal officials, continue to monitor an increase in drone activity near sites where outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza have been identified.
Local law enforcement have received reports of several drones spotted in Adams, Allen, Jackson and Jay counties in Indiana as well as nearby Ohio locations. Many of these drones have been reported flying over farms identified by the Board of Animal Health, and some reports have surfaced of people shooting at the drones to bring them down.
It is a crime to shoot down a drone. It is a felony to “damage, destroy, disable or wreck any aircraft,” punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison.
Additionally, the public is warned against chasing down drone operators in cars or otherwise engaging with drone operators who may be illegally flying in the area. All reports of drones or personal operators in these counties should be reported to the local county Emergency Management Agency or law enforcement. Additionally, many of the reports that have come into local law enforcement have been unfounded.
Agricultural areas and farms affected by the avian influenza are quarantined, and any unlawful entry (by drones or citizens) could spread the virus. Some reports have surfaced to indicate drones have landed on barns in these areas, and there is legitimate concern the drones could transmit disease from one location to the next. Nearby residents should never take action into their own hands but rather contact local officials to report the activity.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Federal Aviation Administration are working with state (IDHS, Board of Animal Health) and local law enforcement to monitor the airspace. Flight restrictions in certain areas are being considered.
The Indiana State Board of Animal Health continues to address the local cases of avian influenza in Indiana and is taking appropriate action to protect the public.
Complete FAA rules and guidance related to flying drones
Drone operators should avoid these bird farms and remember some standard rules:
- These areas are quarantined for safety reasons. The FAA requires certain standards for a pilot to fly at night.
- All pilots or their visual observers must be able to always see the drone while in flight.
- Flying drones above people is permissible only in certain circumstances.
- Drones must fly no higher than 400 feet above the ground or operator.
- All operators must have proper certifications and registration paperwork.
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