Says FAA Should Quickly Finalize Rules To Rein In 'Irresponsible' Operators

The FAA has as much culpability for the recent rise in "drone" sightings as the people operating the aircraft. That's the assessment of Brian Wynne, president & CEO of the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), which released the following statement in response to new FAA data that reveals an increase in those encounters.

“The proliferation of irresponsible UAS flights underscores the need for the FAA to finalize its small UAS rules and more aggressively enforce existing regulations.
 
“AUVSI supports stricter enforcement of careless and reckless operators and those who violate restricted airspace. Stricter enforcement will not only punish irresponsible operators, it will also serve as a deterrent to others who may misuse the technology. The FAA currently has the authority to levy hefty civil penalties.
 
“Meanwhile, the FAA needs to finalize its small UAS rules, which would require all UAS operators to follow the safety programming of a community-based organization or abide by new UAS rules for commercial operators. Once the rules are finalized, consumers will no longer be able to fly without any oversight or education.
 
“AUVSI has been working closely with the Academy of Model Aeronautics and the FAA since last year on the ‘Know Before You Fly’ campaign to educate newcomers to UAS technology about where they should and should not fly. Safety is a top priority for the industry and a shared responsibility for all UAS stakeholders. It’s critical that we continue to work together to ensure the safety of the airspace for all aircraft – manned and unmanned.”

FMI: www.auvsi.org