To provide for a rulemaking on operation of unmanned aircraft beyond visual line of sight, and for other purposes.
Impact
The passage of HB3969 is expected to refine and standardize the regulations concerning unmanned aircraft operations, potentially increasing their utility in sectors such as agriculture and logistics. By outlining specific airworthiness and operational standards, the bill seeks to facilitate more widespread and safer use of drones, thereby possibly boosting innovation and efficiency in related industries. Additionally, the inclusion of protocols for third-party compliance services aims to expedite the adoption of drone technology as industry players can work within a structured regulatory framework.
Summary
House Bill 3969 aims to provide a framework for the regulation of unmanned aircraft operating beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS). This legislative initiative directs the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to establish airworthiness and operational regulations within four months of the bill's enactment, focusing on unmanned aircraft intended to operate primarily at or below 400 feet. The rules are intended to enhance the safe integration of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) into the national airspace system, which is critical as drone technology continues to develop and expand in various applications, including agricultural uses.
Contention
Although the bill has widespread support among industry stakeholders seeking to harness drone technology, there are concerns regarding regulatory overreach and implications for airspace safety. Critics may argue that hastily established rules could overlook critical safety concerns, particularly regarding the use of drones in proximity to manned aircraft. Furthermore, the qualifications for remote pilots, as stipulated in the bill, may face scrutiny regarding their adequacy in ensuring safe operations. As such, the discussions surrounding HB3969 highlight the delicate balance legislators must navigate when fostering technological advancement while safeguarding public safety.
To direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to publish guidance and implementation procedures for unmanned aircraft systems with respect to environmental reviews, and for other purposes.
Advanced Aviation Act This bill directs the Department of Transportation (DOT) to redesignate the Office of NextGen as the Office of Advanced Aviation within the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The new office duties include the coordination of rulemaking and approval processes on matters relating to advanced aviation systems (e.g., drones, supersonic aircraft technologies, counter-unmanned aircraft systems). The bill also establishes an Office of Advanced Integration within the Office of Advanced Aviation. Additionally, DOT must establish an Advanced Aviation Coordination Unit within the FAA whose responsibilities shall include the promotion of the safe and responsible integration of advanced aviation systems into the national airspace system. Further, DOT must redesignate the William J. Hughes Technical Center as the William J. Hughes Technical Center for Advanced Aviation. The center must establish and manage a program to evaluate new aviation-related technologies proposed to be used in the national airspace system and facilitate the integration of such technologies into the national airspace system.
To direct the Secretary of Defense to conduct an operational assessment of the installation defense capabilities of the Department of Defense to defeat unmanned aircraft system.