Key Takeaways
- DJI Supports New Drone Regulations: The company endorses proposed U.S. Department of Transportation rules to allow nighttime and over-people drone flights.
- Safety and Innovation: New regulations aim to maintain safety standards while fostering innovative applications of drone technology.
- Positive Impacts: The changes are expected to enhance operational efficiency for professionals across various industries while increasing public safety.
DJI Embraces New Guidelines for Nighttime and Over-People Drone Operations
Expanding Opportunities for Drone Use
On January 14, 2019, DJI, a global leader in civilian drone technology and aerial imaging, expressed its support for new proposals from the U.S. Department of Transportation. These proposed guidelines are set to widen the permissible operational capabilities for drones, specifically facilitating flights at night and over populated areas. DJI anticipates productive discussions surrounding these regulations, emphasizing the need to find a balance between safety requirements and the benefits these rules could bring.
New Rules Set to Transform Drone Operations
The proposed regulations permit trained professional drone pilots equipped with the appropriate technology to conduct flights over people and during nighttime hours. Until now, such operations were mainly restricted and often required special waivers. With over 1,200 waivers granted for nocturnal flight by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, none have resulted in accidents, highlighting a strong track record of safety. The potential for expanded uses of drone technology is immense, spanning sectors from emergency response to infrastructure inspections.
Brendan Schulman, DJI’s Vice President of Policy & Legal Affairs, remarked, “Drones prove every day that they belong in the sky doing important work for America, and everyone benefits when it is easier for professionals to safely fly over people and at night.” He drew attention to the lifesaving capabilities of drones, noting that they have assisted in rescue operations for over 200 individuals globally. Schulman pointed out that facilitating operations over populated areas or at night would enhance efficiency and reduce costs across various professional fields.
Committed to Safety and Innovation
DJI is currently examining additional elements within the comprehensive 198-page proposed rulemaking document, which includes measures aimed at protecting individuals from potential harm caused by drones flying overhead. The guidelines hint at a performance-based standard for assessing safety. This approach allows manufacturers the flexibility to employ innovative solutions to meet these safety benchmarks.
“The Department of Transportation’s recognition of the importance of allowing drones to perform productive work over people is a significant step forward. We also appreciate the encouragement for manufacturers to think creatively about safety standards,” Schulman added. DJI plans to analyze these rules thoroughly and contribute feedback intended to support the department in maximizing the benefits of drone technology.
As the conversation surrounding drone regulations evolves, DJI remains at the forefront, advocating for measures that promise increased utility and safety in the skies above America. The proposed changes could usher in a new era of drone operations, making aerial technology more accessible and effective for various industries.
