Drone Nation

Abstract

This Comment aims to show that current regulation, or more precisely non-regulation of commercial UAS should be modified, and operators should be allowed to conduct commercial operations without subjecting UAS to the high standards of other “aircraft.” Per Congress’s mandate, the FAA should immediately create and enforce practically sound standards for small-scale, commercial UAS that operate inside the NAS while avoiding unnecessary and costly administrative burdens. Congress should modify the currently voluntary standards, instead of mandating that operators adhere to specific commercial use guidelines without requiring an arduous approval process for commercial flight, such as the current Special Airworthiness Certificate and Section 333 exemption. This Comment will not address the issues facing larger, interstate drones that will operate outside of the visual sight or immediate area of the operator.