Drones
USHPA and our National Coordinating Committee work to stay up to date with the fast evolving world of drones and how new rules from the FAA could effect ultralights, airspace and right of way for our pilots.
The most recent development on this front came with the Aviation Rule-making Committee for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operating Beyond Visual Line of Sight (UAS BVLOS ARC) releasing their final report containing specific recommendations to the FAA for changes to 14 CFR 91 (FAR Part 91). A copy of that report is available here.
USHPA, the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), the US Powered Paragliding Association (USPPA), and the Balloon Federation of America (BFA), among others submitted comments to the FAA which can be found below. The primary objection that all of these responses have in common to the ARC Report recommendations is to the specific recommendations that would give UAS (drones) right of way over all aircraft in the airspace below 500 feet AGL except those equipped with ADS-B or TABS. Responders from air sports organizations whose members regularly use this airspace, i.e. hang glider and paraglider pilots, hot air balloon pilots, powered parachute pilots, paramotor pilots, etc are unanimous in their judgement that this recommendation is unworkable and grossly inconsistent with safety.
We will continue to monitor the evolution of drone regulations in the US and advocate for free flight pilots where appropriate. If you have questions or additional insight to share on this topic please reach out to us at [email protected].