The recently signed FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 by President Trump establishes new conditions for recreational use of drones and immediately repeals the Special Rule for Model Aircraft.
The agency is evaluating the impacts of this change in the law and how implementation will proceed. The FAA says the Reauthorization Act cannot be fully implemented immediately, so users should continue to follow all current policies and guidance with respect to recreational use of drones:
Fly for hobby or recreation only
Register your model aircraft
Fly within visual line-of-sight
Follow community-based safety guidelines and fly within the programming of a nationwide community-based organization
Fly a drone under 55 lbs. unless certified by a community-based organization
Never fly near other aircraft
Never fly near emergency response efforts
Updated direction and guidance will be provided as the FAA implements this new legislation.
