The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is using its existing authority under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) § 99.7 – “Special Security Instructions” – to address national security concerns about unauthorized drone operations over 133 military facilities. This is the first time the agency has instituted airspace restrictions that specifically apply only to unmanned aircraft, popularly known as “drones.” The authority under § 99.7 is limited … Read More
Analysis of more than 300 Waivers Granted to Part 107 finds Nighttime Operations Most Common Request
ARLINGTON, Va. – The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) today released a report that finds nearly 90 percent of the waivers granted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under Part 107 went to small businesses. According to the report, most of the waivers allow businesses to operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) at night, which is not permitted under the current rule. The report also finds that businesses in … Read More
The 2017 UAS Symposium Begins Today
The 2017 UAS Symposium begins today, which takes place at the Hyatt Regency in Reston, VA, from March 27 to 29. The FAA and Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) are co-sponsors of this year’s Symposium, which will bring together representatives from government, industry, and academia to discuss the fast-growing unmanned aircraft (UAS) community. Nearly two dozen panels, breakout sessions, and workshops are scheduled for the three-day event. Last … Read More
Let’s Go Over the Drone Registration Basics
What are Drones? A drone is an unmanned aircraft system or “UAS.” They are operated remotely and often carry audio and video recording equipment. Drones are becoming increasingly popular for recreational and non-recreational purposes. All drones weighing over .55 lbs (one half pound) must be properly labeled and require drone registration. Who Controls the USA Airspace? According to Federal Aviation Act (49 USC 40103), the federal government alone has control over “navigable airspace.” Navigable airspace … Read More
Lost & Found Drone Forms Now Live
Have you lost a drone? Use this form to report a lost drone. If the drone is reported as found we will attempt to arrange the return of the found drone. If you have found a drone, please fill out the Found a Drone form. If you have found a lost drone we will attempt to notify the owner of the lost drone and arrange pickup. If you have lost your … Read More
FAA Issues Part 107 Waivers, Airspace Authorizations
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) began issuing Part 107 waivers and airspace authorizations to drone operators starting August 29, 2016, the effective date of the new rule. As of October 24, 2016, the agency has approved 81 authorizations for flights in Class D and E airspace, and has issued 36 waivers of Part 107 provisions to drone operators who applied after the rule’s effective date. However, the agency has found … Read More
Unmanned Aircraft Safety Team Holds First Meeting
The Unmanned Aircraft Safety Team (UAST), held its first meeting October 18-19 in Washington, DC. FAA Administrator Michael Huerta announced the creation of the UAST at the White House Drone Day on August 2. The group, which includes a wide variety of stakeholders from the drone and aviation industries, as well as the government, gathered to analyze data to enhance safety and operations of drones in the nation’s airspace. The UAST … Read More
Do Not Fly Near Hurricane Emergency Response Efforts
The FAA has posted the following information statement about the Hurricane Matthew and operating a UAS. As a result of Hurricane Matthew, there will likely be significant recovery efforts and the FAA may issue flight restrictions in the vicinity of disaster areas. During response operations to Hurricane Matthew, authorized aircraft may be flying at very low altitudes over affected areas. Unauthorized UAS or drone operations may prevent other aircraft from performing life-saving missions and increase the risk of mid-air collision. Anyone, including hobbyist or recreational fliers, who … Read More