Chapter 24, section Three, titled Applications, details what must be contained in the application.
It lists the requirements to explain who you are, what you want to do with the drone, where and
when you want to fly, the type of drone, registration, insurance requirements, and lastly data and
cyber security requirements. This is a good start.
Chapter 24, section Five, titled Permit Conditions, looks at FAA licensing requirements, aircraft
mishap or cyber security incident reporting, community notification procedures and timelines,
and lastly, the stipulation that failure to comply with any of the permit conditions will result in
permit revocation.
While Sections Three and Five provide a solid foundation for the drone permitting process, there’s room
for enhancement, especially in addressing operational considerations:
1. Ground and Airspace Surveys:
• Identifying obstacles and airspace characteristics crucial for safe drone operations.
2. Day vs. Night Operations:
• Exploring the complexities of flying drones at night and the additional requirements
it entails.
3. LAANC and Part 107 Waivers:
• Understanding the importance of automated airspace authorizations and potential
waivers for specific operational conditions.
4. Contingency Plans and Maintenance:
• Developing emergency plans, ensuring proper maintenance, and addressing
contingencies for safe drone operations.
5. Pilot Qualifications and Documentation:
• Evaluating pilot qualifications, background checks, and the need for continuous
proficiency.
6. Data Security and Privacy:
• Emphasizing the critical aspects of data security and privacy outlined in Chapter 24,
Section Three.
As NYC pioneers the way for drone operations in urban spaces, the ongoing collaboration
between regulatory frameworks and operational considerations is essential. Enhancing Sections
Three and Five of Chapter 24 is a step towards creating a comprehensive and adaptable
permitting process for the exciting future of unmanned aerial systems.
While the FAA is more heavily focused on the infrastructure and operational rules to fly drones,
vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, and fixed wing aircraft, both manned and unmanned in an
integrated space, another question that ultimately must be asked is how will the pilots doing the
flying safely integrate into a ground-based mass transit system? Stay tuned…