Low-Flying Helicopter Over San Francisco Bay Area Is Federal Radiation Survey Ahead of Super Bowl LX
What residents are seeing in the skies
Residents across the San Francisco Bay Area reported seeing a helicopter flying noticeably lower than typical traffic in recent days, prompting questions about whether it was connected to Super Bowl security planning. Federal agencies have confirmed the aircraft is part of pre-event public safety preparations tied to Super Bowl LX, scheduled for Feb. 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.
Purpose: measuring normal background radiation
The flights are being conducted by the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) using an aerial radiation-measuring platform intended to map baseline radiation levels across the region. Establishing a detailed “background” reading before a major event provides a reference point that can help authorities quickly evaluate whether a future reading is unusual and warrants investigation.
The NNSA has described the operation as a routine component of security and emergency preparedness for major events that draw large crowds and international attention. Officials also emphasized that the helicopter’s low altitude is part of the measurement methodology rather than an indication of an ongoing incident.
Flight window and aircraft details
The low-altitude survey flights are scheduled from Monday, Feb. 2, through Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. The public may see a Leonardo AW139 helicopter equipped with specialized radiation-sensing technology associated with the Nuclear Emergency Support Team’s aerial measuring system capability.
How this fits into broader Super Bowl airspace planning
The radiation survey is only one element of a larger air and security posture that typically accompanies Super Bowl week. Federal aviation authorities have also announced strict drone restrictions for Super Bowl LX, including a “No Drone Zone” around Levi’s Stadium and additional restrictions in downtown San Francisco in the days leading up to the game.
Separate from drone enforcement, pilots operating in the Bay Area are being advised to anticipate temporary flight restrictions on game day, which commonly limit certain operations and can change how aircraft enter, exit, or transit nearby airspace.
What to expect on the ground
Residents may continue to observe repeated flight paths at relatively low altitudes during the Feb. 2–4 survey window. The patterning is consistent with data collection rather than point-to-point travel. Authorities have urged the public not to be alarmed by the helicopter’s altitude or its repeated passes.
Dates of low-altitude survey flights: Feb. 2–4, 2026
Event: Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium (Santa Clara)
Primary purpose: establishing baseline radiation measurements for rapid comparison during major-event operations
The operation is designed to collect background readings in advance of a high-profile event, supporting emergency preparedness and rapid assessment if concerns arise later.