FAA UAS Proposal Open for Comments Until April 24
The public has until April 24 to comment on a framework of regulations proposed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in February. The regulations 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 agency said.
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 new rules would not apply to model aircraft. However, model aircraft operators must continue to satisfy all of the criteria specified in Sec. 336 of Public Law 112-95, including the stipulation that they be operated only for hobby or recreational purposes.
The public will be able to comment on the Small UAS Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for 60 days from the date of publication in the Federal Register. The proposed regulation was published for public comment on February 23, and comments will be accepted through April 24.
Read an overview of the Small UAS NPRM (PDF).
Read the complete Small UAS NPRM (PDF).
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I recognize that UAS can fulfill otherwise impossible, dangerous or extremely man intensive tasks. Other sites indicate that proper use primarily relies on voluntary behavior. Considering that Recreational Use or even Commercial Use by some, can become blatant violation of personal privacy. ‘NoFlyZone’ is a great endeavor but has no teeth and relies only on voluntary compliance.