DOT and FAA Propose Sensible New Rules for Small Drones
A UAS safety/Flight certificate sounds a lot more reasonable than earlier proposals that leaked previously. Real aircraft flight training will not be required. And in even more positive news, they may establish another set of rules for “micro” drones weighing under about 5 pounds.
A 500 foot altitude limitation won’t be much of a problem, neither will the 100 mph velocity limit. Finally I see some recognition out there how much safer drones are than conventional craft in the event of any mishap let alone serious crash.
WASHINGTON - The Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration today proposed a framework of regulations that would allow routine use of certain small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in today’s aviation system, while maintaining flexibility to accommodate future technological innovations.
The FAA proposal offers safety rules for small UAS (under 55 pounds) conducting non-recreational operations. The rule would limit flights to daylight and visual-line-of-sight operations. It also addresses height restrictions, operator certification, optional use of a visual observer, aircraft registration and marking, and operational limits.
The proposed rule also includes extensive discussion of the possibility of an additional, more flexible framework for “micro” UAS under 4.4 pounds. The FAA is asking the public to comment on this possible classification to determine whether it should include this option as part of a final rule. The FAA is also asking for comment about how the agency can further leverage the UAS test site program and an upcoming UAS Center of Excellence to further spur innovation at “innovation zones.”
More: Press Release - DOT and FAA Propose New Rules for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems