Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) are an increasingly popular tool in the production industry. As the use of UAS is so new, the regulations pertaining to them are continually evolving. UAS are sometimes also referred to as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or Drones.

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION (FAA) REGULATIONS

The FAA requires that UAS owners register their UAS prior to operation. This rule pertains to UAS weighing more than 250 grams and less than 55 pounds. The FAA also asks that UAS activities stay under 400 feet. This is to make sure the UAS don’t fly at the same operating altitudes as full-sized aircraft.

FAA guides and rules that may be helpful:

• FAA UAS Home Page
• CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS PART 107 — SMALL UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS
• REQUEST TO OPERATE IN CONTROLLED AIRSPACE — 107 REGULATIONS SUBJECT TO WAIVER
• REFERENCE WAIVER SAFETY EXPLANATION GUIDELINES FOR PART 107 WAIVER APPLICATIONS LINK

For more information on UAS use in Birmingham, AL please contact
FAA Alabama FSBO, Greg Muse 205-876-1329

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Know Before You Fly

An education campaign founded by the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA), and the Small UAV Coalition in partnership with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to educate prospective users about the safe and responsible operation of UAS.

CSATF Recommended Guidelines for Safely Working Around UAS

Safety bulletins via the Contract Services Administration Trust Fund, A non-profit organization, that administers a variety of programs for the benefit of the motion picture and television industry.