Agency considers whether existing satellite licensing requirements adequately address unmanned aircraft operations
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering changes to its satellite communications rules that could simplify access for drone operators. The agency is seeking public comment on whether existing regulations adequately address unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and whether different licensing requirements may be appropriate.
The questions are part of the FCC’s Space Modernization for the 21st Century proceeding, published in the Federal Register on October 26, 2026. The proceeding addresses broader changes to satellite licensing, including provisions specifically related to drones.
Existing Rules Allow Certain Satellite Communications for Drones
The FCC confirms that drones may already qualify to use certain satellite communications services under existing regulations.
“We confirm that a drone may qualify as an ESIM and utilize eligible spectrum under our part 25 and 100 rules to the extent that it sends or receives radiofrequency (RF) signals to or from an authorized FSS satellite system,” the agency states.
An Earth Station in Motion (ESIM) is equipment that communicates with satellites while moving. Fixed-Satellite Service (FSS) refers to a category of satellite communications service.
However, the FCC acknowledges that its earlier regulations did not specifically consider drones as a distinct category of satellite-connected equipment. The agency is now asking whether drones should have their own classification or continue operating under existing categories.
Considering Different Requirements for Drone Connectivity
Current satellite communications rules include requirements developed for conventional aircraft and vehicles. The FCC is examining whether those requirements are appropriate for drones, which generally operate at lower altitudes.
The agency also asks whether drones should be treated more like consumer communications devices, such as satellite user terminals or connected handsets.
These distinctions could affect the licensing and technical requirements that apply to satellite communications equipment carried aboard drones.
The FCC has not proposed a specific new classification. Instead, it is inviting industry feedback on which approach would be most appropriate.
Exploring Simpler Licensing Requirements
A central question is whether drone operators could access eligible satellite spectrum without obtaining individual licenses or meeting complex technical requirements.
The FCC states that its goal is to support a competitive drone connectivity market with multiple providers and fewer barriers to entry.
The agency is seeking comment on changes to existing definitions and regulations that could support this goal. It also asks whether additional guidance could clarify how current rules apply to drones.
Any changes would concern FCC communications requirements. They would not replace FAA flight authorizations, including approvals required for operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS).
Satellite communications can provide a connection where ground-based networks are unavailable. As the drone industry expands long-distance and remote operations, the regulatory framework for these connections may become increasingly important.
Public Comment Period Open
The FCC adopted the underlying Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in July 2026. Its publication in the Federal Register on October 26 establishes the formal comment deadlines.
Initial comments are due November 25, 2026, and reply comments are due December 28, 2026.
The proceeding gives drone manufacturers, operators, satellite service providers, and other stakeholders an opportunity to address how satellite communications rules should apply to UAS.
The FCC has not adopted new drone-specific satellite licensing requirements. The current proceeding seeks input on whether changes are needed and how they should be structured.
Read more:
- “Hammer Down”: FCC Moves to Open 50 MHz of Spectrum for Drones
- FCC Clears Nationwide Test of Cellular Networks for Drone Safety
- FCC “Military-Grade” Drone Proposal Draws Overwhelming Opposition in Public Comments
Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
TWITTER:@spaldingbarker
Subscribe to DroneLife here.
Leave a Reply