The bill has significant implications for federal aviation laws, as it seeks to standardize the integration of UAS into controlled airspace. It requires the FAA to establish clear objectives, performance metrics, and a detailed plan for implementing the integration strategy. Additionally, the FAA is tasked with coordinating various offices and stakeholders to ensure a cohesive approach to UAS regulation. Such measures are intended to maintain U.S. leadership in aviation technology and to enhance national security and safety.
Summary
SB1927, known as the UAS National Airspace Integration Act, mandates the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to devise a comprehensive strategy for the integration of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) within the national airspace. This initiative comes in response to the growing use of drones for both commercial and recreational purposes, aiming to enhance safety and efficiency within the existing aviation framework. The bill emphasizes the importance of timely implementation of statutory provisions and outlines objectives to guide the integration process.
Contention
Despite its potential benefits, the bill may face contention from various stakeholders concerned about safety, privacy, and regulatory burdens. There are concerns regarding the adequacy of FAA resources to execute this comprehensive strategy and how it may affect local jurisdictions and existing aviation practices. The requirement for periodic briefings to Congress aims to address oversight and accountability, while also providing opportunities for public and stakeholder input, which may help mitigate some opposition.
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.
Appropriating money for the support of state government for the period beginning September 1, 2011, and ending August 31, 2013; and authorizing and prescribing conditions, limitations, rules, and procedures for allocating and expending the appropriated funds.