DroneOn June 21, 2016, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) finalized rules under 14 CFR Part 107 for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (SUAS). These regulations go into effect in August 2016. The new regulations impact operations of certain commercial and public sector SUAS and certification of their operators. The regulations cover drones weighing less than 55 pounds and conducting non-hobbyist operations. Operations not covered by Part 107 include: those beyond the operator’s visual line of sight, night operations, operations at an altitude of more than 400 feet, and operations over persons not participating in the drone operation. Therefore, drone operations at populated entertainment events; large package delivery; crop dusting; inspection of large towers, bridges, or buildings; and surveying of large areas at a fast pace will require compliance with or exemptions from other drone regulations. Operators of model aircraft, regulated under Section 336, are not impacted.

Important Take-Aways under Part 107

These are some of the notable regulations finalized by the FAA:

  • SUAS operators are pilots

Part 107 formally establishes a remote pilot in command position for SUAS operators and specifies the qualifications required to obtain a remote pilot certificate.

  • Only accidents causing serious injury/damage have a reporting deadline

Previously, regulators proposed that any accident that resulted in injury or property damage must be reported to the FAA within 10 days. The finalized rule states SUAS operators must report accidents that cause serious injury or property damage within 10 days.

  • Maximum altitude of 400 feet above ground level

Previously, the FAA considered allowing SUAS to fly 500 feet above ground level.

  • Maximum groundspeed

The regulations limit maximum groundspeed to 100 miles per hour (87 knots).

  • Must yield right of way

The SUAS must yield the right of way to other aircraft in the airspace.

  • Generally no operations from moving aircraft or vehicles

Part 107 prohibits the operation of a SUAS from a moving aircraft. No operations from a moving vehicle are permissible unless the operation is over a sparsely populated area.

  • No hazardous materials

SUAS cannot carry hazardous materials.

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