Expert Opinion
AIN Blog: Drone Case May Signal FAA Power Grab
Does the FAA need to regulate this foamy Super Cub? Photo by Matt Thurber
Does the FAA need to regulate this foamy Super Cub? Photo by Matt Thurber

An FAA enforcement case against the operator of a UAS (unmanned aircraft system) may force a determination of whether the FAA has regulatory jurisdiction over model radio-control aircraft and whether the agency can prohibit the commercial operation of such aircraft. This is believed to be the first FAA enforcement action against the operator of a radio-controlled model aircraft.

UAS have been used for commercial purposes for a long time; many operators are using UAS equipped with cameras to shoot low-cost aerial photography, often for commercial purposes, including for real estate developers, movie-makers and property owners. Some UAS are far less expensive than helicopters and generally much quieter, too.

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Matt Thurber
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