Aerial Imaging Startups are Gaining Momentum

As with any industry, increased prominence begets increased risk of government regulation put in place to ensure responsible participation in that industry.

Miniaturization and commercialization of drone technology in the consumer sector has paved the way for a vast increase in those interested in doing traditional business with modern drone technology.

One such innovator is Max Tubman, who operates Steam Machine Pictures in Philadelphia, PA. His drone filming services, performed with small drones adapted to carry film equipment, have increasingly been in demand by those wishing to add an aerial view to event, scenic, and survey footage.

But like other small business owners, Tubman is increasingly aware of the restrictions under which he must operate. “I’m trying to stay within the bounds of the law while at the same time advancing my fleet and skill-set so I can go full force when the regulations develop,” Tubman recently told Philly.com. “But there are so many companies doing it on a larger scale that if you stay under the radar, you should be fine.”

Historically, restrictions on commercial flight of drones have limited the possibilities of entrepreneurs and corporations to engage in this sort of work for hire. 

Early in June, however, the FAA announced that it was considering an exemption to the commercial drone flight ban. This exemption would apply to seven companies within the motion picture industry, setting a strong precedent for further industry-by-industry analysis of economic opportunity and potential financial gain.

The FAA has stated that the Motion Picture Association of America “facilitated the exemption requests on behalf of their membership.” As part of the process to render those companies exempt from regulation, the FAA will be tasked with setting appropriate standards under which the companies must operate using drones. 

The MPAA has requested that the exemption includes relaxing pilot and operational training, as well as maintenance requirements, while giving concessions to flight duration and altitude restrictions and backup systems in case of drone failure.

Should the request be granted, Aerial Imaging Startups companies like Steam Machine, of which there are many, will be able to get off the ground in earnest.

 “Associated safety issues must be carefully considered to make sure any hazards are appropriately mitigated,” the FAA said.

While the FAA mulls over the MPAA’s request, it has already given an exemption to British Petroleum, who began flying a drone for commercial purposes in one of the remotest locations on the planet.