WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman David Schweikert sent a letter to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Elaine Chao and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Steve Dickson urging the agencies to quickly and safely allow for an increase in the adoption of commercial unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen an increased need for the adoption of autonomous technology to deliver goods and services. As we seek to safely reopen our economy, I believe UAS technology has the potential now more than ever to move critical goods to those that need it, while allowing our businesses to continue operating. These technologies are the future for how we can efficiently provide services at a fraction of current costs. I look forward to working with the Department of Transportation and Federal Aviation Administration to expedite the use of these technologies.”

Background:

FAA Part 107 regulations cover a broad spectrum of commercial and government uses for drones weighing less than 55 pounds. 
 
Currently, deliveries, whether it be vital medicines, nutritional assistance, or packages containing other quality of life goods, cannot be delivered at night and/or out of the visual line of sight, without a waiver. The FAA can issue waivers for certain requirements of Part 107 if operators are able to show that they can operate safely without endangering people, property and aircraft.   

The FAA is continuing its regulatory rulemaking process to safely integrate UAS into the nation’s airspace.

To read the full letter, click HERE. 


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