New Procedures Would Issue Blanket Waivers For Multiple Aircraft, Sources Say

The FAA is said to be looking at revisions to its procedures for granting waivers to commercial UAV operators in an effort to make it easier for the aircraft to be used.

The New York Times cites unnamed sources with "knowledge of the matter" who indicate that under new guidelines in development, a company would not have to apply for an exemption for each individual aircraft. The change could be announced this week, according to the report.

The FAA has received more than 750 requests for waiver from companies wishing to fly UAVs in connection with their business, and has granted 48 so far.

Companies that have already received waivers would automatically be allowed to fly additional aircraft, the sources said.

U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), chair of the Subcommittee on Aviation Operations, Safety, and Security, will hold a hearing on Tuesday, March 24, 2015, at 2:30 p.m. to examine broadly the potential beneficial uses for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and the efforts of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on safe integration of UAS in the National Airspace System. It will also explore potential privacy concerns associated with this emerging technology.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.faa.gov