The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has released new rules regarding drone operation. These are the FAA’s first attempt at a comprehensive plan to ensure drones can safely share the skies with commercial craft.

Here are five things you now need to know if you own or operate a drone:

1. Most small drone operations have now been limited to daylight hours.
Drones weighing less than 55 pounds are now only able to fly during the daylight hours unless the aircraft carries lights visible for three miles. Drone operators who wish to participate in night flights must demonstrate specific safety measures and obtain a waiver.

2. Drone operators must get certified every two years.
Operators will now have to pass an aeronautics test every 24 months for a certificate, as well as a background check by the Transportation Security Administration.

3. Most small drones must remain lower than 400 feet in the air.
The FAA is now requiring that drones under 55 pounds not go higher than 400 feet in the air, or higher if within 400 feet of a taller building or tower.

4. The aircraft must remain within sight of the operator or an observer who is in communication with the operator.
Eyes must be on the aircraft at all times, whether the operator or an observer who is able to communicate with the operator.

5. Operators must be at least 16 years old.
In addition to the bi-annual certification process, drone operations are now restricted to adults over the age of 16.

For more information regarding drone operations, go to www.faa.gov. The attorneys at Skeeters, Bennett, Wilson & Pike want to make sure you stay up-to-date with FAA guidelines. Don’t hesitate to contact an attorney if you have a specific question about your drone operations.

 

Dustin joined the SBW&P team in 2010, coming to us from one of the oldest firms in Cincinnati. He earned his undergraduate degree from Bellarmine University, summa cum laude, and his law degree from the Salmon P. Chase College of Law at Northern Kentucky University, where he graduated cum laude. Dustin’s law practice includes personal injury law, medical malpractice law, business law including corporations, LLCs and business planning, real estate law, probate law, estate planning, employment law, and family law.