FAA opens up commercial drone potential after granting permission for six TV and film companies
Six television and movie firms have been granted permission by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the use of drones to shoot scenes.
Decision: The FAA may be loosening commercial drone restrictions
The move signals a loosening of strict rules around drone use within US airspace, although the FAA ruling does still require an inspection of any aircraft before flight and a ban on operating the devices at night.
US Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx was quoted by the BBC as saying: “Today’s announcement is a significant milestone in broadening commercial UAS use while ensuring we maintain our world-class safety record in all forms of flight.
“These companies are blazing a trail that others are already following, offering the promise of new advances in agriculture and utility safety and maintenance.”
Moves from the FAA on loosening restrictions around drone use will be watched closely in other industries. In July, Amazon submitted a request to the FAA for permission to test drones. The company hopes to use drones as a method of retail delivery.