Drone Expansion: New Rules for Beyond Visual Line of Sight Operations.
This act aims to boost commercial drone use in the US by establishing clear regulations for operations beyond the pilot's visual line of sight (BVLOS). It mandates the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to create a certification pathway and new safety standards within two years. For citizens, this paves the way for expanded drone services, such as package delivery, and fosters innovation in advanced aviation technology.
Key points
The FAA must establish new, simplified rules to allow commercial drone flights beyond the pilot's visual line of sight (BVLOS) within two years.
New, less complex methods for drone certification are introduced (e.g., manufacturer's declaration of compliance instead of full type certification) to speed up market entry for new models.
A new dedicated office within the FAA (Office of Associate Administrator of UAS Integration) is created to ensure the safe and rapid integration of drones into the national airspace.
The FAA's authority to quickly grant exemptions for low-risk operations, such as drone package delivery or flights close to the ground/structures, is extended.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_307
Sponsor: Sen. Warner, Mark R. [D-VA]
Process start date: 2023-02-07