Task Force To Develop Drone-Registration Rules

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A task force comprising 25 to 30 representatives from industry and government will be formed to develop a registration process for drones, U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and FAA Administrator Michael Huerta announced today in Washington. The group will advise the department regarding which drones would be exempt from registration due to a low safety risk. They also will explore options for a registration system that will simplify the process for commercial operators. The task force has a deadline of Nov. 20 to deliver its report to federal officials. Foxx said he hopes to have a system in place before Christmas, when it’s expected that up to a million drones will be given as gifts.

“Registering unmanned aircraft will help build a culture of accountability and responsibility, especially with new users who have no experience operating in the U.S. aviation system,” Foxx said.”It will help protect public safety in the air and on the ground.” In the last year, pilot reports to the FAA of drone sightings doubled.”These reports signal a troubling trend,” Huerta said.”Registration will help make sure that operators know the rules and remain accountable to the public for flying their unmanned aircraft responsibly.When they don’t fly safely, they’ll know there will be consequences.” Foxx said those who fail to register their drones will be subject to penalties.

A range of industry groups filed statements in support of the announcement, and will serve on the task force. The groups include the Air Line Pilots Association, Helicopter Association International, the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International, the Academy of Model Aircraft, and more. While the task force is working, the FAA will continue its “aggressive education and outreach efforts,” according to the DOT news release. The agency also will continue “to take strong enforcement action against egregious violators.”

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