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Drones
Tech

Drones need tracking network for expanded flights, US regulators say

  • According to the draft rules, some civilian drones will have to broadcast radio tracking data to improve safety and prevent terrorism
  • The costs on the public and the drone industry for the proposed regulation would be US$584 million over a 10-year span

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Under the Federal Aviation Administration’s proposal, if drone operators want to operate freely, they would have to both broadcast their identity on a radio frequency that can be monitored nearby and simultaneously upload the information via the internet. Photo: Shutterstock
Bloomberg

All but the smallest civilian drones would have to broadcast radio tracking data to ensure greater safety and prevent terrorism under a sweeping proposal unveiled by US regulators on Thursday.

The long-awaited draft rules call for a massive new tracking network for everything from toys to larger commercial drones so that law enforcement can spot the devices flying anywhere, from congested urban areas to the most rural zones.

The controversial measure by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which is subject to public comment and could change before it becomes final, is a key foundation to advance drone-driven commerce, including deliveries of consumer goods by companies such as Alphabet’s Wing and Amazon.com’s Prime Air. The rules would come into full force three years after being finalised.

“Remote ID technologies will enhance safety and security by allowing the FAA, law enforcement and federal security agencies to identify drones flying in their jurisdiction,” US Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao said in a press release.

Drone delivery services, such as Amazon.com’s Prime Air, could benefit from the roll-out of new remote identification rules and creation of a tracking network proposed by the US Federal Aviation Administration. Photo: DPA
Drone delivery services, such as Amazon.com’s Prime Air, could benefit from the roll-out of new remote identification rules and creation of a tracking network proposed by the US Federal Aviation Administration. Photo: DPA

With only limited exceptions for groups such as model-aeroplane operators, all drones weighing more than 0.25 kilograms (0.55 pounds) would have to broadcast their position and operator’s identity at all times under the FAA proposal.

The FAA is suggesting that private companies approved by the agency would set up tracking systems for drones, replicating the existing air-traffic control system for traditional aircraft.

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