FAA said Wednesday the committee will explore safety standards to help the agency classify which drones should be allowed to fly over non-operators and identify ways for manufacturers to demonstrate compliance.
“Based on the comments about a ‘micro’ classification submitted as part of the small UAS proposed rule, the FAA will pursue a flexible, performance-based regulatory framework that addresses potential hazards instead of a classification defined primarily by weight and speed,” said FAA Administrator Michael Huerta.
ARC, co-chaired by Earl Lawrence and Nancy Egan, will comprise drone builders and operators, researchers, academic professionals and representatives from industry standards bodies.
The agency expects the panel to submit a final report by April 1 and plans to create a rulemaking proposal after the agency reviews the group’s recommendations.