It’s been coming for quite some time, and now it’s here: the FAA has brought into effect rules governing the operation of small commercial drones. The rules were actually announced in June, but have actually just come into effect only recently.
Small drone operators now need to familiarize themselves with a three-page document, which lists the new rules in separate bullet-points. These rules will apply to all unmanned vehicles that weigh less than 55 pounds. This document has been given the underwhelming name of ‘Part 107’ and can be seen on the FAA’s website.
In addition to the new document, there is also a provision for operators who wish to remain exempt from any part of the rules, due to specific operational needs. Those who are interested should apply for a Part 107 waiver, through the FAA website.
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A spokesperson for the FAA was reported by PetaPixel, as saying that the new rules were necessary in light of the rapid expansion in drone use, thanks to the ‘limitless possibilities unmanned aircraft offer’. It was made clear that the rules are only the latest step in trying to control the impact drones are having, both on aviation, as well as on society as a whole.
The document governs various aspects of drone usage. Perhaps the most significant of these is the point which states that commercial users will need to obtain a remote pilot certificate in order to legally fly their drone. Operators will be able to take a test in order to qualify for this certificate.
The widely-expected ‘line of sight’ rule has also been included, along with other stipulations regarding visibility. The drone will need to remain within visibility of its operator at all times. Night-time flights will be prohibited and flight time will begin and end at sunrise and sunset, respectively. Should the drone be fitted with anti-collision lighting, this limit will be extended each way by a half hour. As far as the weather is concerned, if visibility is below three miles, drones will be grounded.
While many users will be concerned about restrictions on their freedom to fly, there is good news for operators who rely on speed as a key factor in operation. A top speed limit of 100 miles per hour means that high-performance drones will still be able to fly close to their maximum speeds. The flight ceiling is 400 feet from the ground below it. If you are at the beach, this means an altitude of 400 feet. If you are at the top of a skyscraper, it means 400 feet above the building.