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FAA's Proposed Part 108 Rule Could Transform US Drone Operations

The FAA's proposed Part 108 rule could revolutionize drone operations in the US. With the comment period closed, the agency aims to finalize the regulation by early 2026.

In this image I can see the aircraft flying in the air. It is in white and blue color. Background...
In this image I can see the aircraft flying in the air. It is in white and blue color. Background is in blue color.

FAA's Proposed Part 108 Rule Could Transform US Drone Operations

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has concluded the public comment period on its proposed Part 108 rule, which could significantly expand the use of drones in US airspace. If adopted, it would be the most substantial regulatory change since Part 107, potentially transforming how drones share the sky with other aircraft.

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) emphasized the need for 'electronic conspicuity', advocating for the digital sharing of aircraft position data across all airspace users to ensure safe separation between drones and crewed aircraft. Other major aviation organizations, such as the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), also submitted comments on the proposed rule.

The FAA's proposed Part 108 regulation would allow certain beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations without individual waivers or exemptions. This covers low-altitude drone flights for package delivery, infrastructure inspection, agriculture, and public-safety missions. The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) welcomed this proposal and urged the FAA to finalize it swiftly.

The FAA and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will now review thousands of submissions, aiming to issue a final regulation by early 2026. They will balance innovation and safety for drones and other new aircraft types. The FAA denied two requests to extend the 60-day comment period due to the White House's Executive Order 14307, which requires a final BVLOS rule within 240 days of its issuance.

The FAA's proposed Part 108 rule, if adopted, could greatly expand drone operations in the US, potentially revolutionizing industries such as package delivery and infrastructure inspection. With the comment period closed, the FAA and TSA will now work towards issuing a final regulation by early 2026, ensuring safety and integration with existing airspace users.

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