New changes to drone restrictions mostly positive

Drones are a much-discussed topic lately, with all its positives and negatives -- its benefits and concerns. When first introduced, drones seemed like something out of a science-fiction novel or a "Jetsons" cartoon, but they quickly became the newest example of how technology has advanced.

Safety is a top priority. As much as people want to see progress, no one wants progress that puts lives in jeopardy. Thus, the need for rules, but, as the saying goes, "Rules were made to be broken" -- or at least changed. The Federal Aviation Administration has announced new rules for commercial use of these unmanned aircraft.

The Southeast Missourian's Bridget Brown recently reported, "Restrictions on commercial drone use are tight. Commercial operators have had to carry a manned aircraft pilot's license or acquire a waiver, which can be a lengthy process." Brown continued, "But by August, it will become easier to operate a commercial drone." Easier rules, rather than tougher ones? Now, that's a change we don't typically see. Come August, however, the need for that special permission will not be necessary -- a burden lifted from those who find flying drones commercially beneficial.

Jack Mitchell, who owns Tailwinds R/C Hobby Center in Cape Girardeau, praised the change not just because it makes good business sense, but because drones aid in disaster relief and search and rescue efforts.

But it does also provide business benefits in various industries, including photography, real estate, farming and, of course, journalism.

The Missourian's own David Guay, vice president of production, has spoken well of the changes, stating that the FAA's safety priority has been maintained while simultaneously "providing clear-cut guidelines for user operations that impact commercial, not recreational use."

This means the guidelines governing business use of drones still apply, such as registering online, passing a TSA background check, being at least 16 years old and conducting pre-flight safety checks.

Guay pointed out that previously, unless one possessed an Exemption 333 certificate, he was not to fly a drone for business. He was required to have, minimally, a manned aircraft pilot's license. Now, one does not need that license. Granted, those concerned with safety may find that troublesome, but keep in mind, the operator must still pass an FAA-administered basic aeronautical knowledge test. Guay asserted that the changes "will actually benefit our industry greatly. Drone journalism can offer many benefits to our readership in both print and digital (website) technologies."

While some worry that the looser rules will compromise safety, key regulations remain unchanged: Still, flying altitude remains at "only 400 AGL (above ground level)," said Guay, the unmanned aircraft still "must operate within line of sight" and careless operation is still prohibited.

According to the FAA, "the rule could generate more than $82 billion for the U.S. economy and create more than 100,000 new jobs over the next 10 years."

Here's the upshot as we see it: The loosening of regulations is a good thing, as businesses do not have to worry so much that the FAA will come knocking on their doors, but businesses still have an obligation to keep public safety their top priority, which means they must know and follow all regulations.