The FAA is now saying it doesn’t know when proposed rules governing the commercial use of small unmanned aerial systems will be ready for publication. Congress has set a deadline for the agency to map out the integration of UAS lighter than 55 pounds by next September and it was widely speculated that something would be ready for public discussion by the end of 2014. FAA spokeswoman Elizabeth Cory told an Indianapolis television station there is now apparently no firm deadline. “We are continuing to work with our administration colleagues to finish the rule. I am sorry to say I do not have a date for you,” Cory said in an email to WISH. Leaked copies of the working draft of the rules sparked widespread criticism a month ago, particularly the proposed requirement that commercial UAS operators have pilot certificates for manned aircraft. Meanwhile, the agency continues to hand out exemptions for UAS use.
The Florida Keys Mosquito Control District is the latest to get an exemption and will use two UAS to look for standing water in remote areas that serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. The district’s executive director, Michael Doyle, told The Associated Press that the aircraft will fly between Key Largo and Sugarloaf Key and stay at least five miles away from airports.
