FAA cracks down on drone at high school football games

Friday, November 7, 2014
FAA cracks down on drone at high school football games
The agency said students are no longer allowed to fly a drone over Green Hope High School's football games.

CARY, N.C. (WTVD) -- Green Hope High School's drone won't fly over Friday night's football game against Panther Creek.

It was grounded after a letter from the Federal Aviation Administration was sent to the school earlier this week following a tip to the agency.

The FAA said unmanned aircraft "are prohibited above large gatherings of people."

The drone project was thought up by students in the Black Falcons cybersecurity club as a way to raise money to attend a national youth conference. They launched it last month during their school's homecoming game against Middle Creek.

"It's very cool," said sophomore Chris Clark. "It's a shame. It's helping out the school."

The Black Falcons planned to fly the drone again during Green Hope's final home football game.

Instead, Wake County School spokesperson Lisa Luten said the club will not fly it due to concerns from the FAA.

"Wake County Public School System respects the FAA's regulations, and will be reviewing our programs to ensure that future aircraft projects comply with safety guidelines," said Luten.

"It is a bummer," said sophomore Brandon Nowak.

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