No Drone zone in NYC. Photo: Shutterstock Drone operators in New York City are being warned to leave their aircraft at home during the United Nations General Assembly taking place between September 22 and September 28, 2026, as federal and local authorities prepare to enforce temporary flight restrictions.
The U.S. Secret Service said New York City will be designated a “NO DRONE ZONE” during the General Assembly, with the agency working alongside the NYPD, New York State Police and other federal partners.
The Federal Aviation Administration has also reposted the warning, directing drone operators to check current restrictions before flying.
The restrictions are linked to the heightened security measures surrounding the annual United Nations General Assembly, which brings world leaders and large numbers of international delegations to New York.
The Secret Service said its personnel, together with law enforcement partners, will enforce the FAA restrictions during the event.
Drone operators are being advised to check the FAA’s B4UFLY flight planning resources for the latest information on where and when drone operations are restricted.
The FAA’s B4UFLY system provides information about airspace restrictions and other areas where drone flights may be limited or prohibited. Operators are responsible for checking the applicable restrictions before taking off.
The warning is particularly relevant in New York City, where temporary airspace restrictions can cover areas around major events and protected locations.
The United Nations General Assembly is held annually at the UN headquarters in Manhattan and attracts delegations from countries around the world. Security operations typically involve multiple federal, state and city agencies.
Violating an FAA flight restriction can result in enforcement action, making it important for operators to verify the rules rather than relying on normal airspace conditions.