FAA Announces New Drone Regulations
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As you know, drones are becoming more commonplace in agriculture, and the future will only offer more opportunities for their use by farmers and agronomists. So it’s important for our industry to note that on June 21, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) finalized the first operational rule for routine commercial use of small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), also known as drones. This marks a significant step toward fully integrating UAS into U.S. airspace.
What this means for you
For growers, retailers and smaller companies adding drones to their portfolios, the clear and simple nature of these regulations makes consideration of this new technology more appealing. The rules provide a better structure for entrance and operation, minimizing some of the apprehension of people who were on the verge of investing in the technology. And they are coming as the cost of buying a drone continues to decrease, thereby lowering the barrier to entry by farmers, retailers and specialized drone companies.
About the rule
The Small Unmanned Aircraft Rule (Part 107), which takes effect in late August 2016, offers safety regulations for unmanned aircraft drones weighing less than 55 pounds that are conducting non-hobbyist operations, according to a news release issued by the FAA.
The rule’s provisions are intended to minimize risks to other aircraft, and to people and property on the ground. In part, the rule
The FAA will provide all drone users with recommended privacy guidelines as part of the UAS registration process and through the FAA’s B4UFly mobile app.
Stay tuned to Answer Tech® for additional information on FAA drone regulations as it becomes available.
What this means for you
For growers, retailers and smaller companies adding drones to their portfolios, the clear and simple nature of these regulations makes consideration of this new technology more appealing. The rules provide a better structure for entrance and operation, minimizing some of the apprehension of people who were on the verge of investing in the technology. And they are coming as the cost of buying a drone continues to decrease, thereby lowering the barrier to entry by farmers, retailers and specialized drone companies.
About the rule
The Small Unmanned Aircraft Rule (Part 107), which takes effect in late August 2016, offers safety regulations for unmanned aircraft drones weighing less than 55 pounds that are conducting non-hobbyist operations, according to a news release issued by the FAA.
The rule’s provisions are intended to minimize risks to other aircraft, and to people and property on the ground. In part, the rule
- Requires pilots to keep a UAS within visual sightlines.
- Confines operation to daylight hours and during twilight if the drone has anti-collision lights.
- Addresses height and speed restrictions and other operational limits, including prohibiting flights over unprotected people on the ground who aren’t directly participating in the UAS operation.
- Must be at least 16 years of age.
- Have a remote pilot certificate with a small UAS rating or be directly supervised by someone who does. (There are specific qualifications, and training is necessary to earn a remote pilot certificate.) These licenses require training but are not cost or time prohibitive.
The FAA will provide all drone users with recommended privacy guidelines as part of the UAS registration process and through the FAA’s B4UFly mobile app.
Stay tuned to Answer Tech® for additional information on FAA drone regulations as it becomes available.
As you know, drones are becoming more commonplace in agriculture, and the future will only offer more opportunities for their use by farmers and agronomists.
