On October 5, 2018, the President signed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018. The Act establishes new conditions for recreational use of drones and immediately repeals the Special Rule for Model Aircraft.
The agency is evaluating the impacts of this change in the law and how implementation will proceed. The Reauthorization Act cannot be fully implemented immediately, please continue to follow all current policies and guidance with respect to the recreational use of drones:
- Fly for hobby or recreation only
- Register your model aircraft
- Fly within visual line-of-sight
- Follow community-based safety guidelines and fly within the programming of a nationwide community-based organization
- Fly a drone under 55 lbs. unless certified by a community-based organization
- Never fly near other aircraft
- Never fly near emergency response efforts
Updated direction and guidance will be provided as the FAA implements this new legislation.
8 Comments on “Drone Pilots: President Trump Signs FAA Reauthorization Act”
Need info on hobby drone flying
if I fly drones for a hobby, do I need to register my drone with the FAA
Yes. All drones weighing just over a half pound .55lbs require the pilot to register and mark with your registration number.
I’m trying to register my drone but when I get to the part where I have to pay for the certification it says no shipping to Puerto Rico
We’ve corrected the issue.
Hobby:
I want to map my 160 acres of wooded hunting land in the different 4 seasons of the year. Does the line of sight mean I can’t do this?
If the UAS will fly outside of your visual sight you will be required to file for a waiver from the current regulations.
You will be required to file for a waiver from the Part 107 regulations, § 107.31 – Visual Line of Sight Aircraft Operation. The FAA will try and review all applications within 90 days.
Visit the following link for where to start. https://www.faa.gov/uas/commercial_operators/part_107_waivers/