NAS Patuxent River Air Show 2026: Drone And Boating Restrictions Visitors Need To Know

LEXINGTON PARK, Md. — Visitors planning to enjoy the waters of the Patuxent River or fly recreational drones during the 2026 NAS Patuxent River Air Show should be aware of temporary safety and security restrictions that will be in effect throughout the event weekend.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fisheries has announced a temporary Boating Safety Enforcement Zone on portions of the lower Patuxent River from June 19-21, while the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office has issued a warning regarding a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) that prohibits drone operations within a 5-mile radius of the installation.

Officials say the measures are necessary to ensure public safety during air show performances and military flight operations.

Boating Safety Enforcement Zone To Cover Portions Of Solomons Harbor

According to the Maryland Natural Resources Fisheries Facebook post, a temporary boating safety zone will be established in waters surrounding Solomons Harbor and areas adjacent to NAS Patuxent River.

The restricted zone encompasses a large portion of the lower Patuxent River where air show demonstrations will occur overhead.

Boaters navigating through the area should expect increased law enforcement presence and potential restrictions on vessel movement during scheduled performances.

Security Zone Remains In Effect Near Naval Air Station

In addition to the broader boating enforcement area, officials emphasized that a separate federal security zone surrounding NAS Patuxent River will remain strictly enforced under federal regulations.

The zone covers waters adjacent to the installation’s flight operations areas and seaplane basin approaches. All civilian vessels are prohibited from entering the designated security zone at any time.

Natural Resources Police officers and Coast Guard personnel will patrol the area throughout the event weekend.

Officials urge mariners to review navigation charts and remain alert for patrol vessels, temporary markers and instructions from law enforcement officers on the water.

Drone Flights Prohibited Within 5 Miles Of NAS Patuxent River

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office has also issued a reminder that a Temporary Flight Restriction will be in effect from Wednesday, June 17, through Monday, June 22, 2026.

Under the TFR, all aircraft, including unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and recreational drones, are prohibited from operating within the restricted airspace.

The restriction supports military and air show operations and is intended to prevent conflicts with aircraft performing demonstrations throughout the week.

Violators May Face FAA Enforcement

Law enforcement agencies are warning drone operators that violations will not be taken lightly.

According to the sheriff’s office, anyone operating a drone within the restricted airspace should expect a law enforcement response. Deputies may document violations and refer cases to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for investigation and possible enforcement action.

Officials further noted that unauthorized drones operating within the restricted area may be subject to counter-UAS mitigation measures, which can disable or disrupt aircraft operating unlawfully within the protected airspace.

Drone operators remain responsible for any damage, injury or consequences resulting from the operation — or loss of control — of their aircraft.

Officials Urge Visitors To Plan Ahead

With thousands of spectators expected to attend the 2026 NAS Patuxent River Air Show, officials encourage boaters, anglers, paddlecraft users and drone enthusiasts to familiarize themselves with the temporary restrictions before heading out.

Those planning to be on the water should allow extra travel time, monitor local notices to mariners and follow directions from law enforcement personnel. Drone operators are advised to verify airspace restrictions through FAA-approved resources before every flight.

The 2026 NAS Patuxent River Air Show is expected to draw visitors from across the Mid-Atlantic region, making safety both on the water and in the air a top priority throughout the event weekend.

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