Proposes Amendment To The Aviation Innovation, Reform, And Reauthorization Act Of 2016

One of a slew of amendments to H.R. 4441 ... "The Aviation Innovation, Reform, And Reauthorization Act Of 2016" ... is one offered by Congressman Rodney Davis (R-IL) (pictured) that would create a new class of 'Micro UAS' that would be subject to fewer restrictions than larger unmanned aircraft.

Under Davis' amendment, A micro UAS would be any UAV weighing 4.4 pounds or less, including payload. To qualify for the less-stringent regulations, it would have to be flown at an altitude under 400 feet during daylight hours and within the visual line-of-sight of the operator. It could also not exceed 40 knots.

Under the amendment, "an operator of a micro UAS operated in accordance with subsection (b) of this section is not required to pass any aeronautical knowledge test or meet any age or experience requirement."

But Davis also wants such UAVs to be exempted from the other regulations as well. "A micro UAS and the component parts and equipment of such micro UAS are not required to meet airworthiness certification standards or to obtain certificates of airworthiness."

A micro UAS operated in accordance with the parameters of the amendment would "not require a certificate of authorization or waiver from the Federal Aviation Administration."

(Image from file)

FMI: Davis Amendment