Man Charged for Drone Flight Near Levi's Stadium During NFL Game

Junwei Guo faces up to $100K fine and 1 year in prison for violating temporary flight restrictions.

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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A 27-year-old San Francisco man named Junwei Guo has been charged in a federal criminal complaint for flying a drone within restricted airspace surrounding Levi's Stadium during a 2025 NFL game between the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams. Guo allegedly operated the drone at an altitude of up to 2,300 feet, which raised significant public safety concerns and the potential to disrupt air traffic control in the area. Guo did not register the drone, obtain the required FAA certification, or comply with the temporary flight restriction (TFR) imposed by the FAA for the event.

Why it matters

The FAA has strict rules prohibiting drone flights near large stadiums during major events like NFL games due to public safety and national security concerns. This case highlights the importance of complying with these 'No Drone Zone' restrictions, as violators can face hefty fines and even federal criminal charges.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, Guo operated the drone within a three nautical mile radius of Levi's Stadium, which the FAA had designated as 'National Defense Airspace' and prohibited all aircraft, including drones, from entering during the game. Guo allegedly flew the drone as high as 2,300 feet above ground level, which raised significant concerns about disrupting air traffic control in the area.

  • On November 9, 2025, Guo allegedly flew the drone near Levi's Stadium during a game between the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams.
  • Guo is scheduled to appear in federal court in San Jose on February 27, 2026 for an initial appearance.

The players

Junwei Guo

A 27-year-old San Francisco man who was charged in a federal criminal complaint for flying a drone within restricted airspace surrounding Levi's Stadium during an NFL game.

Craig H. Missakian

The United States Attorney who announced the charges against Guo.

Sanjay Virmani

The FBI Special Agent in Charge who announced the charges against Guo.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Junwei Guo out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the strict rules and serious consequences around operating drones near major events and venues. With the upcoming Super Bowl LX in the San Francisco area, the FAA and FBI have established even tighter 'No Drone Zones' that carry fines up to $75,000 for violators.