Release #: 15.40
October 07, 2015

ALPA Calls on Congress to Bolster FAA’s Oversight of UAS Operations

WASHINGTON, D.C.––The Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) today called on Congress to direct the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to regulate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operated for recreation and hobby.

In his testimony [oral | written] before the U.S. House of Representatives Aviation subcommittee, ALPA president Capt. Tim Canoll outlined key components needed for the safe integration of UAS into the national airspace system.

“We must put safety first,” Capt. Canoll said. “The FAA is making some progress in ensuring a safe integration of UAS into the nation’s airspace system, but more is required. While work on a final rule regarding small commercial UAS operations is encouraging, the agency must immediately address all UAS operations.”

With the anticipated sales of one million UAS during this year’s holiday season, Capt. Canoll highlighted ALPA’s four-part plan to safely integrate UAS. “Given the safety risk highlighted by the FAA’s recent release of pilot reports on UAS encounters, it appears increased focus on UAS safety is necessary. By focusing efforts on education, registration, technology, penalties, and enforcement, we believe our country can take advantage of the economic opportunities offered by UAS while maintaining safety.”

Capt. Tim Canoll, ALPA president (center, speaking), testifies before the U.S. House of Representatives Aviation subcommittee

ALPA’s four-part action plan includes enhanced education efforts by aviation stakeholders to ensure that those flying UAS for recreational purposes adhere to the FAA guidelines, including potential minimum age requirements, keeping the UAS within line of sight, and flying at heights under 400 feet. In addition, gathering contact information about the UAS purchaser at the point of sale will not only allow authorities to immediately identify the owner, but it will also drive home the serious nature of operating these UAS.

Capt. Canoll emphasized that from a technological perspective, UAS must be equipped with active technologies that ensure it is capable of avoiding a collision with manned aircraft and virtually “fence off” UAS from operating in unauthorized locations. In order for this plan to work successfully, it is imperative that UAS pilots be properly trained and fully understand the consequences of exceeding the operating limitations and possible malfunctions.

Anyone deliberately flying a UAS recklessly should be subject to criminal prosecution, and those who unintentionally deviate from rules and limitations should be subject to civil penalty.

“ALPA stands ready to help the FAA develop these regulations as part of realizing our shared goal of ensuring the safety of air transportation for all who depend on it,” concluded Canoll.

Founded in 1931, ALPA is the largest airline pilot union in the world and represents over 52,000 pilots at 31 U.S. and Canadian airlines. Visit the ALPA website at www.alpa.org or follow us on Twitter @WeAreALPA.

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CONTACT: ALPA Media, 703-481-4440 or Media@alpa.org