Federal aviation officials are proposing a new rule that would allow certain critical infrastructure facilities to seek drone flight restrictions over and around their sites, a move that could significantly expand federal oversight of unmanned aircraft operations near sensitive locations nationwide.
The proposed Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rule comes as drone activity continues to rise across the U.S., prompting growing concerns from federal officials over safety, security and potential disruptions to infrastructure and economic operations. The agency says unauthorized drone operations near certain facilities could create risks to public safety, aviation and national security.
The proposal would implement provisions tied to Executive Order 14305, “Restoring Airspace Sovereignty,” and provisions of the FAA Extension, Safety and Security Act of 2016.
Eligible facilities would include energy infrastructure, transportation systems, water and wastewater plants, chemical facilities, dams, communications networks, healthcare facilities, government sites and defense industrial operations.
Facilities seeking restrictions would have to show the restrictions are necessary for aviation safety, protection of people and property on the ground, or national or homeland security. If approved, the FAA could limit airspace vertically and laterally through Unmanned Aircraft Flight Restrictions (UAFR). The UAFR could be limited in its hourly duration, but restrictions would remain in effect for five years before renewal.
Under the proposal, drones required to register with the FAA would have to broadcast a Remote ID signal, and facility operators would be able to report drone operations that violate restricted airspace. Violators could face fines, suspension or revocation of remote pilot certificates, or criminal charges.
The proposal could affect contractors, utilities, transportation operators and industrial facility owners seeking additional protection from unauthorized drone activity.
Photo by Pok Rie from Pexels
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