In US, Civilian Use of Drones Awaits Regulations

August 27, 2013

Judging by the number of autonomous vehicles displayed at the recent international exhibition in Washington, unmanned aerial vehicles or drones are here to stay. But their extensive use in the commercial sector is hindered by the slow introduction of rules and regulations.

Drones have many advantages. They are cheaper to purchase, operate and service than piloted aircraft.

They can be sent on dangerous missions without putting a crew in harm's way.

And drones have potential way beyond the military.

They could help find hikers lost in the wilderness, monitor crops, manage wildlife, spray vineyards, deliver medicine, explore for oil, monitor power lines, even deliver takeout.

The main obstacle for civilian use of drones in the United States is the lack of regulations.

The Federal Aviation Administration regulates U.S. airspace and allows a restricted use of drones in areas of low air traffic, like Alaska.

Operators must request an Experimental Airworthiness Certificate to fly a drone. The FAA said that precludes "carrying people or property for compensation or hire, but allows operations for research and development, flight and sales demonstrations and crew training.”

That's what AeroVironment plans to do with its popular drone called the Puma, explained David Heidel, the company's marketing manager.