In the last year, the federal government has responded to the emerging commercial industry of unmanned aviation by issuing new regulations.

Commercial drones

A drone is operated for commercial purposes whenever the operator is being paid to utilize the drone or it is used in furtherance of a business. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sought to address the widespread use of this technology by creating a path for commercial drone operators to obtain certification under a process known as the Small Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) rule or (Part 107).

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On Aug. 29, 2016, the FAA implemented Part 107. The rule created a regulatory framework for the civil and commercial operations of small UAS, weighing 55 pounds or less. Generally, Part 107 requires operators to fly under 400 feet, within visual line of sight and only during daylight hours. Under this process, drone pilots are issued a Remote Pilot Certification and each drone is registered with the FAA.