A prominent part of the robotics law, the US drone law allows you to earn flying drones.
Last time, you saw how lucrative the drone industry is. You might have even spot your new business opportunity.
Now, you might say: But there’s plenty of safety risks and restrictions — no way I can fly. Right?
No, you can actually do it! Many businesses effectively earn on drones.
We’ll now guide you through the legal framework of flying drones as follows:
So how can you use a drone legally?
Last year, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) enacted a new drone regulation called Part 107 Rule. This is a cornerstone of the US drone law.
Since August, the new rule applies to drones that conduct commercial operations and weigh less than 55 pounds (i.e. 25 kg).
What should you watch out for?
The new drone regulations provide for maximum height and speed, minimum weather visibility as well as other operational limits.
To fly a drone, a person must be at least 16 years old and have a remote pilot certificate or be supervised by someone with such a certificate.
Can you get a remote pilot certificate?
Yes, of course! To qualify for a remote pilot certificate, you must either pass an aeronautical knowledge test at an FAA-approved center or have an existing pilot certificate.
Ready to fly?
Before flying a drone, you have to register it. We will show you how to do that in our separate post.
Moreover, you must ensure that your drone is safe. Luckily, the FAA does not require drones to comply with airworthiness standards or aircraft certification.
Instead, you simply have to perform a preflight check of the drone to ensure that the safety systems function properly. The pilot must, specifically, check the communication link between the drone and its control station.
Importantly, the FAA may waive some of the drone flight restrictions if you prove that the drone will fly safely.
Need more flexibility with drone law?
The FAA works on additional rules that will expand your range of drone operations. We’ll keep you posted on new drone regulations. In the meantime, check out the FAA site.
To learn about business incorporation, check out how to open your company in the US.
To start your drone business, feel free to download our business setup checklist (infographic).
For an ultimate guide on how to start your own business in the US, watch our webinar.
