NFL fans were left in shock on Saturday night as a playoff game between the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers was unexpectedly paused due to a mysterious drone flying over the stadium.
The delay, which occurred during the third quarter, was officially called an “administrative timeout.”
When the game resumed, sideline reporter Kaylee Hartung explained that the stoppage was caused by the sighting of a drone in the area.
Fans React to the Unusual Disruption
The appearance of the drone sparked a flurry of reactions on social media.
One fan on X (formerly Twitter) joked, “Drones over the stadium, what is this madness?” Another chimed in with, “Those east coast drone aliens are at it again.
They were just trying to learn what football is.”
The unusual sighting has become part of an ongoing trend that has fans questioning the mysterious drones hovering above various locations.
FAA Implements Temporary Drone Restrictions Near NFL Games
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has strict regulations when it comes to drones flying near NFL games.
Temporary flight restrictions are placed above stadiums to keep both aircraft and drones away from the game, ensuring the safety of the players and the event.
These restrictions mean drones are not permitted to fly within a three-mile radius of any NFL stadium, and officials are required to pause the game if a drone is spotted.
A Repeat Incident at a Ravens Game Sparks FBI Warnings
This is not the first time drones have disrupted a Ravens game.
In fact, it marks the third incident, prompting the FBI to step in.
Special Agent David Rodski released a video urging fans to leave their drones at home.
He emphasized the potential dangers of drones, explaining they can be hazardous not only to people on the ground but also to aircraft in the sky.
Ravens Dominate Steelers Despite the Drone Interruption
Despite the interruption, the Ravens went on to dominate the Steelers, securing a 28-14 victory in their AFC Wild Card game.
Lamar Jackson threw for two touchdowns in a stellar first half, and Derrick Henry led the Ravens’ powerful running game, rushing for 186 yards.
The Ravens’ defense also stepped up, holding the Steelers to just 29 rushing yards, a record low for Pittsburgh in a playoff game.
Drone Sightings Widen Beyond NFL Games
While the drone sighting over M&T Bank Stadium raised eyebrows, it’s part of a larger trend of mysterious drone sightings across the eastern United States.
In particular, many drones have been reported flying over New Jersey and the surrounding areas, prompting concerns about their origin and purpose.
FAA Steps Up Restrictions in Response to Drone Sightings
In response to the growing number of drone reports, the FAA has imposed temporary flight restrictions in several areas, including 22 zones in New Jersey and 30 zones around New York City and Long Island.
These restrictions, effective through mid-January, were implemented at the request of federal security agencies to address safety concerns.
Authorities Investigate, But No National Security Threat Identified
Authorities, including the FBI, Homeland Security, and state agencies, have been investigating the drone sightings.
However, there is no indication that these drones pose a threat to national security or public safety.
Many of the drone sightings have been attributed to legal drones, manned aircraft, or even stars, leaving authorities with few leads to pursue.
Ongoing Concern About Drone Activity in the Area
As the mystery surrounding the drones continues to unfold, officials urge the public to remain vigilant.
While there has been no confirmed link to any criminal activity, the appearance of these drones has raised concerns about potential risks to public safety and privacy.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn