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The FAA has released its long-awaited
new rules for Small Drone Operations! These regulations apply to
the use of any unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) weighing less than 55 lbs. for
any reasons other than for hobby or recreational purposes. This applies
to photography businesses that operate small drones.
The finalized
rules are very similar to those which were proposed by the FAA in February 2015. With
these new rules, you will no longer be required to obtain an exemption
from the FAA and hold a manned aircraft pilot's license to offer drone photography
services. Instead, you will be able to become a certified UAS operator
(or "Remote Pilot in Command") by passing a computerized knowledge test
at an FAA-approved testing center.
FAA certified small UAS operators
will be required to meet specified criteria (age requirement, English language
proficiency requirement, health requirements, etc.), follow instructions for maintaining
and inspecting the aircraft, and stay within FAA-specified operational limitations
(some of which are summarized below).
Operational limitations include, but are not limited to:
- Daylight-only operations
- Operations in Class G airspace only
without permission from air traffic control (in Class B, C, D, or E with permission)
- Maximum altitude of 400 feet above ground level
- Maximum airspeed of 100 mph
- UAS may not operate directly over any person not directly involved in the operation
Read the complete regulations from the
FAA here and a summary of the rules here.
Rules will take effect in August. Stay tuned for more information from PPA!
Your PPA Team
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