The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) rule on the commercial use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), also known as drones, will benefit agriculture in many ways, according to said RJ Karney, American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) drone policy specialist.

The new Small UAS Rule (Part 107), including all pilot and operating rules, went into effect on Aug. 29. To operate commercially, individuals now must undergo an on-site multiple-choice knowledge test and interview. They can then operate a drone so long as it is within their line of sight – not directly overhead of people – occurs during daylight and stays below 400 ft. AGL. Operating in controlled airspace involves significantly less red tape. However, FAA does not require that an operator show flight proficiency of any kind.  Read More

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