FAA Restricts Texas Airspace to Help Find Flood Victims

As Texans continue the heart-wrenching search for loved ones still missing after the devastating Fourth of July floods, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an urgent Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) over flood-ravaged areas in the Texas Hill Country, including Kerr County and surrounding regions.

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This restriction applies to all aircraft, including drones, to prevent interference with low-flying rescue aircraft and ensure the safety of search crews on the ground and in the air.

Why the Airspace Is Off Limits

The airspace over the flooded Hill Country has become extremely congested with low-altitude flights from rescue helicopters, law enforcement, and search operations. The FAA’s new rules are in place to prevent mid-air collisions and ensure that trained pilots can safely navigate the area while desperately searching for the missing.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and multiple emergency response teams are conducting operations in tight flight corridors. Unauthorized drones or aircraft could put lives at risk or cause delays in these critical missions.

How Drone Pilots Can Stay Informed

As a drone owner myself, I thought of offering my services to help search for those still missing. However, I've learned through the latest alert from the FAA that anyone flying a drone recreationally or professionally must avoid these areas unless cleared through the FAA's Air Operations Center (AOC). Updates to the TFR will be listed in real time on the FAA’s website and through drone-specific apps like:

• B4UFLY App – For recreational drone flyers
• LAANC System – For requesting airspace authorization

Violators will be reported to law enforcement and federal authorities, and detection equipment is already being used to ground unauthorized drones.

Who to Contact If You Must Fly

If there’s a legitimate reason to fly in the restricted zone, drone operators must first contact the Air Operations Center, UAS Command at (936) 577-2370 to receive clearance.

Once cleared, operations will be tracked by the Joint Air Ground Coordination Team (JAGCT), which oversees all air traffic in the area for deconfliction and safety.

Read More: The Latest West Texas Floods Spark A Wave Of Community Compassion

A Personal Plea from One Heart to Another

As a father myself, I’ve been contacted by a few families asking me to help spread the word about their missing loved ones. And I will, because I don't even want to imagine the pain of not knowing where your child or family member is. This is a real-life nightmare for so many families right here in Texas. Every moment, every inch of sky, every shared message matters.

Let’s Keep the Skies Clear for Search Teams

As we pray for those still missing, let's all do our part by keeping the skies clear for emergency responders. The families of the missing need every second, every tool, and every bit of airspace focused solely on bringing their loved ones home.

If you know someone flying a drone in the area, please share this information with them.