The GAO warns the FAA must set clear milestones for drones to detect and avoid manned aircraft as the number of drones sharing the National Airspace System is expected to near 4 million by 2029.
Unmanned Aerial Systems
FAA Cracks Down on Drones in 2025
The FAA levied fines ranging from $1,771 to $36,770, as well as suspended or revoke drone pilot certificates.
FAA Expands UAS Test Site Network for First Time Since 2016
The expansion of the test locations is designed to accelerate the integration of drones into the National Airspace System, including how they will share that space with manned aircraft.
Virginia launches advanced air mobility and unmanned systems test site
Developed to support the deployment of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), urban air mobility solutions, and other advanced aviation platforms, the program will serve as an operational proving ground for new capabilities that align with Virginia’s Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) strategy, public-private priorities, and long-term economic goals, according to state aviation officials.
We were here first
Instead of requiring drones to detect and avoid (DAA) any obstacle (like airplanes, helicopters, or cranes), this rule will put the onus on crewed aircraft.
Proposed rules would give drones right of way under 400 feet AGL
An analysis of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking released in August 2025 aimed at enabling enabling autonomous unmanned aerial system (UAS) operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) shows the proposed rule will have implications for all users of the National Airspace System “in ways large and small,” according to officials with the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA).
King School updates drone pilot ground school
Commercial drone pilot applicants now have access to an updated King Schools course to prepare for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate exam.
New research warns of drone risks to aircraft
A nationwide analysis of drone activity led by researchers at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University documents increasing growth in the use of drones and reveals “hot spots” where the risk of a mid-air collision with manned aircraft may be higher.
ASA updates drone textbook
The third edition of the textbook is designed to prepare readers for the FAA Knowledge exam, as well as how drones fly, their components and systems, and the requirements to fly in the same airspace as crewed aircraft.