No Reason Given For The Delay

The U.S. DOT has delayed the publication of an NPRM concerning remote identification of UAVs until December of this year.

According to the DOT Significant Rulemaking Report, the action would implement system(s) for the remote identification of certain unmanned aircraft systems. The remote identification of unmanned aircraft systems in the national airspace system would further address security and law enforcement concerns regarding the further integration of these aircraft into the national airspace while also enabling greater operational capabilities by these same aircraft.

The rulemaking project was initiated in February of 2018. The new projected date for publication of the NPRM is December 20, 2019, with the comment period open through February 1, 2010.

The delay was met with disappointment by UAVSI. “The need for remote identification cannot be overstated, as the advancement of the UAS industry depends on identifying and tracking UAS flying in the airspace," said association president and CEO Brian Wynne. "Remote ID is necessary for enabling advanced and expanded operations such as flights over people and beyond line of sight, which will provide significant benefits throughout our economy and society. Most importantly, remote ID is critical for ensuring airspace safety by helping law enforcement identify and distinguish authorized UAS from those that may pose a security threat. We urge the FAA to move as quickly as possible with rulemaking for remote identification to keep the skies safe for all aircraft – both manned and unmanned.”

(Sources: DOT and AUVSI)

FMI: www.transportation.gov/regulations/significant-rulemaking-report-archive
www.auvsi.org