The Titans are backing a bill proposed in the Tennessee General Assembly that would restrict drones from stadium and outdoor venue flyovers.
After a video produced by a drone that flew through Nashville's Fourth of July fireworks went viral, the Titans pushed to create limitations on unmanned aircraft, The Tennessean reported Monday.
"We're trying to walk a balance between restricting people that are just trying to have fun … but if you don't have permission or a license, you probably shouldn't be flying over a Titans game with 60,000 people," State Sen. Jack Johnson said. "Common sense, I hope, would prevail."
The bill would prohibit unmanned aircraft above venues that hold 100 people or more — even with no event in progress. Although hobby drones haven't caused any deaths, they have caused a few minor injuries. Lobbyist and lawyer James Weaver, representing the Titans, stressed the welfare of attendees above all.
"You ought to be able to attend (an event) and not get your head knocked off by a drone falling out of the sky," Weaver said. "The right currently may exist, but it's stupid."
The primary motive of the bill is safety. Additionally, the bill would prevent infringing on certain team and broadcasting rights during a game or practice. If the law is ultimately passed, it would add to the already growing list of hobbyist drone rules in addition to the rules for commercial flying being considered by the Federal Aviation Administration.