With commercial drones being used in almost every business verticals, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed plans to track drones in U.S. airspace. By imposing this rule, companies like Amazon and Google can effectively deploy commercial drones across the U.S. 

It would also create a system that allows the government and law enforcement agencies to track drones in the sky, distinguishing them between licensed aircraft vehicles and those that can potentially be a threat to citizens. Supposedly, this would be vital step towards creating an air traffic management system that allows government authorized widespread commercial drone delivery. 

Citing the proposed rule, FAA Administrator Steve Dickson said that safety is a collective responsibility of the government, the drone community, pilots, the general public and many others. The FAA is requesting all drones to comply with the new rule within the next three years. The agency is also asking for public views. 

However, a drone industry trade group recently raised concerns about the 3 year timeline, which suppresses the industry’s ability to mainstream drone delivery for another several years. 

According to Lisa Ellman, Executive Director of Commercial Drone Alliance, their main concern is regarding the implementation period, which is up to 3 years. Until the technology is implemented, the public will be deprived of the safety, efficiency and humanitarian benefits of commercial drones.

Meanwhile, renowned drone manufacturer, DJI said that it is currently reviewing the proposal, claiming that the company had already implemented its patented AeroScope remote ID tech two years ago, to refrain pilots from flying its drones too close to restricted areas.

As per reports, the government has only approved small-scale drone delivery projects in specific areas and is holding back commercial drones from flying in the U.S. airspace as it could be dangerous if operated without proper regulations.  

Source Credit: https://thehill.com/policy/technology/475969-faa-proposes-tracking-most-drones-in-us-airspace