More than 3,300 had signed up to take the test on Monday, the first day it was available, and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration estimates the number of drone operators-for-hire may exceed the nation’s 171,000 private pilots within a year.
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“What the rule provides is for routine commercial drone operations within certain limitations”, said FAA Administrator Michael Huerta.
The new commercial rules are similar to those of hobbyists.
Drones still must be in the sight line of operators at all times, and while most drone usage at night is prohibited, the FAA is granting waivers to that restriction, where appropriate. They can only fly drones during daylight, within sight, and no higher than 400 feet from the ground.
After meeting these requirements, a soon-to-be pilot must pass a knowledge exam at an FAA-approved testing center.
Now he just has to take a 150 dollar FAA test.
An estimated 7 million drones are planned to be in operation, which also includes 2.6 million aircrafts all for commercial purposes.
The rules – which have been applauded by the Hollywood community – apply to drones weighing less than 55 pounds for non-hobbyist use, including film production.
Thousands of would-be drone pilots are racing to get licensed under new US regulations that have opened an aerial stampede.
“Over the next ten years, commercial, unmanned aircraft systems could generate more than $82 billion for the U.S. economy, and by 2025, could be supporting as many as 100,000 new jobs”, said Anthony Foxx, U.S. Transportation Secretary. Parrott said he spent a lot of time studying for the test, and wouldn’t have passed it if it weren’t for the hours spent preparing for it.
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Johnson says drone pilots who are near airports should be in contact with an air control tower to see if any planes are taking off or landing. Huerta said the FAA expects to propose rules on flights over people by the end of 2016. “It’s better for all of us involved”. The FAA has encouraged operators to also download the “Before You Fly” app, which helps to track if you are in a “no drone zone”.
