The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is looking for feedback on regulation that could impact operations and how attractions can use drones, specifically remote identification of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. This feedback is to inform the FAA as it develops a traffic management system for drones. IAAPA will be representing the industry by filing a formal comment on the proposed rule and is looking for member feedback to include by Friday, February 14.
Why is the FAA doing this?
The goal is to address safety, national security and law enforcement concerns regarding the further integration of UAS into U.S. airspace while also enabling greater UAS operational capabilities. The FAA intends to address these concerns while also increasing drone operational capabilities.
How does it impact attractions?
IAAPA intends to comment on these areas that could affect operations, safety, and security:
- The continued need for the Applications for Designation process because of the unique safety and security concerns of attractions.
- Concern over the smaller UAS not addressed in this rulemaking. Right now, the FAA proposes only drones weighing more than 0.55 pounds be required to be embedded with identification that could be accessed remotely.
- If UAS don’t carry identification, operation would be limited to operating in a geographic area defined by the FAA. Location of these areas and their proximity to attractions will be addressed.
- Timing and availability of UAS data transmission.
What can you do?
Read the whole proposed rule online and send suggestions or comments on the impact of the rule on operations, security, and safety to [email protected] by February 14.