Recent enforcement actions, proposed legislation, and regulatory changes affecting drone operators across the United States.
The FAA assessed a $14,500 civil penalty against a Dallas-based drone operator for conducting unauthorized commercial operations within 5 miles of DFW International Airport without LAANC authorization. The operator was also flying without a valid Part 107 certificate.
View sourceThe FAA issued a warning letter to a recreational drone operator who flew within restricted airspace near Tinker Air Force Base without authorization. The operator was contacted by military security forces and cooperated with the investigation.
View sourceA recreational drone operator in Hot Springs received an FAA warning letter after posting social media videos of nighttime drone flights over Bathhouse Row without required anti-collision lighting or Part 107 night operations waiver.
View sourceHB 3456 would create a statewide framework for commercial drone delivery operations, including designated delivery corridors, noise standards, and privacy protections. The bill has bipartisan support and is backed by several major retailers.
View sourceA Houston man was charged with violation of Texas Government Code § 423.003 after using a drone to conduct surveillance of a neighbor's backyard over a period of several weeks. This is one of the first prosecutions under the state's drone privacy law.
View sourceSB 234 would require all commercial drone operators in Oklahoma to maintain minimum liability insurance of $500,000. The bill has faced opposition from the drone industry and small business advocates.
View sourceArkansas House Bill 1234 proposes establishing designated drone delivery corridors along major highways. The bill would create a framework for commercial drone delivery operations and preempt local restrictions on drone deliveries.
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