Consumer Technology Association Says FAA Plan Could Impose Drone Registration Fees On Consumers

One of the members of the FAA's UAS registration task force says that a fee associated with registration might make owners reluctant to register with the government.

"The FAA’s UAS Registration Task Force – comprised of a wide range of stakeholders and viewpoints – developed a consensus set of recommendations regarding a registration system for consumer, recreational and hobbyist drones, pursuant to a directive from the Department of Transportation (DOT). To be successful, an efficient drone registration system with widespread compliance must be simple, easy and free," said Douglas Johnson, vice president, technology policy, Consumer Technology Association (CTA) – formerly the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) – and a member of the FAA's UAS Registration Task Force, in a statement released to the media.

“The FAA’s final requirements for drone registration are now under review by the Administration and, apparently, include a mandated consumer fee. We urge that any requirements for consumers to pay fees be dropped. Even a small fee – essentially a drone tax – could undermine the FAA’s objective of widespread compliance and Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx’s goal of associating a drone with an owner as often as possible.

“This is a crucial time for public policy concerning drones. For the U.S. to stay competitive and drone-related businesses and startups to thrive, we need regulatory – as well as non-regulatory – solutions that support safety and innovation. We urge the FAA to follow the recommendations of the Task Force regarding registration, maintaining the spirit of collaboration among manufacturers, retailers, the aviation industry and law enforcement officials.”

(Source: Consumer Technology Association news release)

FMI: www.CTA.tech