FAA regulations won’t diminish danger of drones

Ireland is one of the first countries in Europe to introduce legislation covering the use of drones. “The FAA’s claim that complying with notice and comment requirements for small drone registration regulation is ‘impracticable and contrary to the public interest, ‘ so that it can therefore ignore them is as predictable as it is absurd”, Scribner said.

The Federal Aviation Administration, responding to heightened concerns about rogue drone flights near airports, unveiled a pre-Christmas rule on Monday requiring drone hobbyists as young as 13 years old to register their unmanned aircraft.

Drone registration is free until 31 January, after which owners will have to pay €5.

Two months ago, USA officials vowed to have a drone registry in place before Christmas, when unmanned aircraft are expected to be a popular gift, including for teenagers.

Drone registration is a two-step process.

The FAA has always been concerned about the potential for disaster and has always been studying what to do about it, particularly with the fast-growing popularity of toy drones. “I’m excited to welcome these new aviators into the culture of safety and responsibility that defines American innovation”. The litigation is still pending. If you are a USA resident, you will need to register it by February 19 or face a possible fine. The is valid for three years.