Drone owners required to register with the faa by february
If you own, or plan on owning, a flying drone, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) wants you to register so they can help you fly safely.
The FAA announced a new registration process that's targeted at "small unmanned aircraft." Specifically, ones that weigh between 0.55 pounds and 55 pounds and are used for hobby or recreational purposes. The organization explains that drones are classified as aircraft, and as such, registration is a necessary requirement.
The program doesn't go live until December 21, but registrations need to be completed by February 19, 2016. Drone owners will need to provide their name, home address and e-mail address, and upon completion will be given a Certificate of Aircraft Registration/Proof of Ownership that includes a unique ID number that must be placed on the drone. The certificate and ID number are valid for three years.
"We expect hundreds of thousands of model unmanned aircraft will be purchased this holiday season," said FAA Administrator Michael Huerta. "Registration gives us the opportunity to educate these new airspace users before they fly so they know the airspace rules and understand they are accountable to the public for flying responsibly."
There's supposed to be a $5 registration fee, but in an effort to get as many registrants as possible, it's being waived until January 20, 2016. Anyone that neglects registration is subject to civil penalties up to $27,500, or criminal penalties of up to $250,000/imprisonment for up to three years. So, really, register as soon as possible.
