WASHINGTON, Oct. 19 (UPI) — Civilian drones will have to be registered before taking to U.S. skies as part of the Federal Aviation Administration’s effort to avoid interference with manned aircraft, federal officials announced Monday.
The U.S. Transportation Department and FAA announced plans to form a task force to determine which classes of unmanned aircraft must be registered under the proposed regulations.
Secretary Anthony Foxx and FAA Administrator Michael Huerta said the task force will also study how to implement the new rules.
The task force, which includes aviation groups, hobbyist associations and manufacturers of small drones for sale to the public, is expected to deliver its recommendations by Nov. 20 and to have a policy implemented by Christmas.
The amateur drone market in the United States has grown quickly, and with it concerns from pilots, lawmakers and the public that some drone flights could cause a hazard to manned aircraft, fans attending stadium events and wildfire containment.
“These reports signal a troubling trend. Registration will help make sure that operators know the rules and remain accountable to the public for flying their unmanned aircraft responsibly. When they don’t fly safely, they’ll know there will be consequences,” Huerta said.
Current regulations regarding drones are few, demanding only that drones not be flown near airports or higher than 400 feet.
Comment count on this article reflects comments made on Breitbart.com and Facebook. Visit Breitbart's Facebook Page.