For years, enthusiasts have wanted lax regulation concerning unmanned aircraft. It’s understandable. You have a hobby. The government restricts you. You want the government to back down. Now, many people are getting their wish.
What The FAA Is Doing
The Federal Aviation Administration oversees the American civil aviation industry. In simple terms, this means regulating air travel. As an agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation, the FAA has the authority to regulate and control all aircraft. But, it doesn’t control toys.
And here is where the intersection of drones and model airplanes crosses. Many enthusiasts regard drones as toys that shouldn’t be subject to regulatory control. Others view drones as not being regulated enough.
Recently, a spokesperson from the FAA said the agency will propose new rules by the end of the year that will allow for commercial use of drones. However, some have speculated that operators will need a pilot’s license to operate them.
Being licensed would mean that these aircraft would move out of the realm of a simple hobby and into the realm of amateur and professional piloting.
As it stands, current rules governing drones fall under the 1981 rules for flying model airplanes. Essentially, pilots don’t need a pilot’s license,
Article source: http://www.theglobaldispatch.com/working-together-unmanned-aircraft-fanatics-and-the-faa-64229/
