ANYONE in America who found a radio-controlled model aeroplane or multicopter drone nestled beneath the Christmas tree ought by now to have registered it with the Federal Aviation Administration, following mandatory safety requirements introduced on December 21st. More than 45,000 people registered their personal UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) in the first few days. That is a good start, but still a long way from full compliance.
Registration, which applies only to recreational UAVs, costs $5 (waived for those registering before January 21st) and is good for three years. Existing drone-owners and aeromodellers have until February 19th to comply. If the UAV weighs more than 250 grams (0.55lb) and less than 25kg, owners simply apply for a registration certificate and identification number through the FAA’s website. The UAV has to be marked with the certification number before being flown for the first time. Indoor flights do not count.
The directive makes it an offense for anyone to fly a UAV above 400 feet (122 metres) and within five miles (8km) of an airport, unless special permission...Continue reading
Source: Science and technology http://ift.tt/1YPC0v0
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