Routine use of small drones has been cleared for takeoff by the Obama administration. The long-anticipated rules mean commercial operators can fly drones without special permission.
Until now, commercial operators have had to apply for a waiver from rules that govern manned aircraft, a process that can be time-consuming and expensive.
Under the new rules, operators would register their drones online, pass an aviation knowledge exam for drone pilots and then they’re good to go. A big change from current regulations which require operators to have a manned aircraft pilot’s license.
Bringing drones into the fold has been slowed due to the controversy surrounding their use. Privacy advocates worry about private citizens spying on neighbors. Fire commanders have dealt with rogue drones disrupting water dropping aircraft.
But Brendan Schulman, Vice president at DJI, the world’s largest civilian drone-maker, says the good work by drones is just beginning. “We’re really at the beginning of the dawn of this era.” Schulman told KABC, a research institute is collecting whale snot using drones. Drones fly out and collect spray from whales and return the blow hole fluid to labs to check up on the health of the whale population.
Schulman says methods like “Geo-fencing” are being used to keep drones away from safe-zones like the White House or airports.
Brendan Schulman spoke with TalkRadio 790 KABC’s McIntyre in the Morning with Doug McIntyre and Terri-Rae Elmer.
By Michael Hotten
Drones Get Rules to Fly-by
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