(Some) drone operators and enthusiasts may rejoice – commercial use drones by businesses will no longer need special permission from the Federal Aviation Administration to fly the drone each time they wish to do so. There are still regulations and rules to follow, but it will be much less of a hassle in due time. Here’s what you still need to know:
- Drones must weigh no more than 55 pounds.
- Drones may fly no higher than 400 feet.
- Drones may fly no faster than 100 miles per hour.
- Operator must have a direct line of sight with the drone at all times.
- Drones may not fly after sunset.
- Drones must be kept away from crowds.
- Operator must be FAA-certified.
Again this applies only to commercial drone use, not private/ personal drone use. Drones have been an issue with all kinds of people, from firefighters and police to pilots to individuals feeling like their privacy has been invaded. In some instances, the private drone operator can get in trouble (like causing a stall when the firefighters need to put out a fire). But hopefully new rules will take trend.