BEND, OR -- An estimated 500,000 recreational drones were purchased over the holidays. The Federal Aviation Administration considers those who fly a recreational drone between a half-pound and 55 pounds, pilots.
Ian Gregor, with the FAA, says most drone flyers have no idea of that status. “They might not be aware that as soon as they start flying outside they are in effect pilots. And there are safety implications to how they fly and there are rules and regulations concerning their operation.”
FAA rules include not flying a drone higher than 400 feet, not flying over crowds, not flying near an airport and not flying impaired. Gregor tells KBND News, “Anyone who previously bought or operates a drone of this size has until February 19 to register.” That’s this Friday.
Drone pilots can register at the FAA website. The cost is $5 for a three-year license.
