Categories : Within the first 30 days of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) unmanned aircraft registration system, nearly 300,000 owners registered their device, according to the agency.
Owners who registered in the first month received a refund for the $5 application fee. Although this refund period is now expired, the FAA reminds users that the Web-based registration system is easy to complete: Once the owner enters the required information – complete name, mailing address, physical address and email address – he or she receives a registration number and certificate to print out. The certificate includes the registration number that must be marked on all aircraft that meet the registration requirement. Registration is valid for three years.
The agency says it continues to see a steady stream of daily registrations. Although the current online system is available only for owners who intend to use their UAS exclusively for recreational or hobby purposes, the FAA says it is working to make the online registration system available for non-model aircraft users – such as commercial operators – by March 21.
“I am pleased the public responded to our call to register,” says U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “The National Airspace System is a great resource, and all users of it, including UAS users, are responsible for keeping it safe.”
The FAA’s registration rulemaking – which took effect on Dec. 21 after a task force provided proposed requirements – applies to UAS that weigh 0.55 lbs.-55 lbs. Owners of these aircraft must register before they fly outdoors. Those who operated before Dec. 21, 2015, must register by Feb. 19.
FAA Administrator Michael Huerta adds, “The registration numbers we’re seeing so far are very encouraging. We’re working hard to build on this early momentum and ensure everyone understands the registration requirement.”
Loading ...
