Positive Outlook on New FAA Drone Regulations: DJI Anticipates Boost in American Innovation
New Framework for Professional Drone Operations Starts Monday
Key Takeaways:
- New FAA regulations aim to simplify the process for legal professional drone use starting August 29, 2016.
- DJI believes the rules will foster innovation across various sectors, including agriculture and public safety.
- Passage of an aeronautical test and background check will be required for remote pilot certification.
- The regulations include safety measures, yet offer operators the potential to request waivers.
- DJI promotes a range of drones suited for professional applications, enhancing affordable aerial perspectives.
On August 26, 2016, DJI, recognized as the world’s leading manufacturer of unmanned aerial vehicles, expressed optimism regarding the fresh set of streamlined regulations from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that will take effect on Monday. These new rules are anticipated to catalyze rapid innovation, enabling numerous American sectors—including businesses, agriculture, government, education, and nonprofits—to harness the potential of drone technology to improve safety, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency in their operations.
Brendan Schulman, DJI’s Vice President of Policy and Legal Affairs, stated, “The new federal drone rule unlocks the potential of drone technology to save lives, help businesses and improve educational opportunities. The FAA has opened America’s skies to safe and responsible drone use, which will bring creative uses and real benefits to people all across the country.” His remarks underscore the belief that the integration of drone technology into various industries may lead to groundbreaking applications that benefit society at large.
Certification for Professional Drone Pilots
Starting on Monday, the FAA will be issuing remote pilot certificates to aspiring professional drone operators. This certification will require passing an aeronautical knowledge exam complemented by a background check conducted by the Transportation Security Administration. Certified pilots will leverage drones across diverse applications including construction, surveying, agricultural monitoring, firefighting, and search and rescue missions.
The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy emphasized its commitment to promoting drone innovation, projecting the creation of 100,000 new jobs and generating an economic impact of approximately $82 billion by 2025. These developments indicate a strong governmental push to facilitate the safe integration of drones into the national airspace.
Safety Guidelines and Innovations
In pursuit of a balance between innovation and safety, the new regulations include critical safety provisions. For instance, they prohibit drone flights at night, above 400 feet, over restricted or crowded airspaces, and directly above individuals uninvolved in the drone’s operation. However, the FAA intends to allow waivers for certain regulations, provided that operators can demonstrate their ability to comply with safety measures effectively.
DJI offers a robust lineup of aerial platforms for new professional pilots eager to delve into the myriad possibilities that drones offer. This includes the compact and budget-friendly Phantom drones, the agile Inspire series, and the heavy-lifting M600 drone, designed for significant imaging payloads. The company’s enterprise website features case studies illustrating how pilots can maximize the capabilities of DJI products, executing tasks more efficiently while minimizing costs and risks.
Partnerships Enhancing Drone Applications
In addition to its innovative hardware offerings, DJI has also initiated partnerships with industry leaders to deliver tailored aerial solutions across various fields. Collaborations include the Zenmuse XT thermal imaging camera, developed with FLIR, a precision agriculture package in partnership with PrecisionHawk, and the state-of-the-art A5D 50-megapixel camera created with Hasselblad.
Staying Safe While Flying Recreationally
It’s important to note that the new regulations will not alter the safety guidelines for recreational drone users. Enthusiasts are encouraged to adhere to the established guidelines recommended by the FAA and discussed in the “Know Before You Fly” campaign—an effort supported by industry players, including DJI. Furthermore, DJI’s software is equipped with various safety features to assist users in navigating the skies responsibly and to prevent wandering into restricted areas.
