Overview

• The notice of proposed rulemaking replaces the FAA’s cumbersome case-by-case waiver system—657 approvals to date—with a uniform authorization for BVLOS flights.
• Under the draft rule, drones must fly below 400 feet, carry onboard detect-and-avoid systems and weigh no more than 1,320 pounds including payload.
• Security measures developed with DHS and the TSA will require operator background checks and safeguards against terrorism, espionage and illicit border crossings.
• Stakeholders have 60 days to submit feedback before the FAA finalizes the regulation later this year.
• Industry groups say the rule will enhance safety while unlocking new commercial uses from package delivery and infrastructure inspection to precision agriculture and emergency response.