By Dronelife Features Editor Jim Magill A coalition of news media associations has sent a letter to the FAA, raising questions about the agency’s recent issuance of a controversial Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM), which imposes sweeping restrictions to the operation of UAVs above or near federal agents and their vehicles. In the letter, addressed to FAA’s Chief Counsel … [Read more...] about News Media Coalition Letter Challenges FAA’s Expansive NOTAM
Drone Restrictions
DJI Responds to GAO Report: Drone Restrictions Undermine DOI Operations
The GAO highlights operational challenges, while DJI advocates for a balanced approach to drone regulation. A new report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), titled "Federal Lands: Effects of Interior's Policies on Foreign-Made Drones" (GAO-24-106924), reveals the significant impact that restrictive drone policies have had on the Department of the Interior's … [Read more...] about DJI Responds to GAO Report: Drone Restrictions Undermine DOI Operations
Proposed Chinese Drone Ban in California: A Conversation with State Senator Tom Umberg on SB 99
Senator Umberg Adjusts Proposed Bill in Response to Law Enforcement Concerns Over Operational Impact By DRONELIFE Features Editor Jim Magill A California state lawmaker, who had introduced a bill to prevent local law enforcement agencies from purchasing Chinese-made drones, said he plans to ease the restrictions in the proposed legislation after getting pushback from police … [Read more...] about Proposed Chinese Drone Ban in California: A Conversation with State Senator Tom Umberg on SB 99
What is Section 2209 – and Why is the Drone Industry Urging the FAA to Implement it as Fast as Possible?
News and Commentary. What is Section 2209 of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016 - and why is it so critical to the drone industry that stakeholders are urging the FAA to implement it as soon as possible? What is Section 2209? Simply, Section 2209 requires the FAA to establish defined boundaries protecting "critical infrastructure" from unauthorized drones. … [Read more...] about What is Section 2209 – and Why is the Drone Industry Urging the FAA to Implement it as Fast as Possible?
The FAA is Catching Up From the Government Shutdown: New Restrictions, New LAANC Provider Process
After the recent government shutdown, the FAA seems to be making up for lost time. In the past 3 days, the agency has made 3 announcements concerning drone regulations. On February 13, the FAA announced a major change to the registration marking rule. At the request of the FAA's "security partners," drone operators may no longer mark their drone registration number inside … [Read more...] about The FAA is Catching Up From the Government Shutdown: New Restrictions, New LAANC Provider Process
