While drones have been around a long time, over the past decade the technology has seen a surge in popularity as a tool for surveillance and mapping purposes, and in some cases become a toy for hobbyists. The use of drones to deliver goods such as food and medicines has also seen growth, but as a panel at CES discussed recently, it will be a long time until unmanned aerial aircraft deliveries become anywhere as ubiquitous as Amazon delivery trucks.
Understandably, the main concern is safety. Abgail Smith, Deputy Executive Director of FAA UAS Integration Office, explained that there is an FAA regulation that enables drone operators to use the airspace as long as they avoid other craft and the drone remains within the line of sight. Operators wishing fly their craft outside that line of sight would need to present their safety case to the FAA.
Pour en savoir plus : Drone Delivery: Air Safety Will Guide Progress