Akin Gump’s Michael Drobac on Senate FAA bill: “Time is of the essence”

“We are extremely pleased that the Senate voted to pass legislation reauthorizing the FAA which included forward-leaning provisions related unmanned aerials systems (UAS). These provisions increase safety and accountability, which are critical as the U.S. moves towards a regulatory framework that will expedite the safe and widespread integration of small UAS into the National Airspace System.  Included among the provisions are a pathway for a new class of air carriers for companies to leverage small UAS technology to deliver products to consumers, and steps to expand and promote beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) and nighttime operations—all of which are crucial components of commercial UAS operations across every sector of the economy. Time is of the essence as other countries continue to utilize this technology in ways the U.S. cannot due to regulatory and legal barriers.”