Release #: 16.38
August 29, 2016

ALPA Statement on Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Regulations Effective Today

Washington, D.C.­—The Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) issued the following statement regarding new Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations for the operation of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) that became effective today:

“As a strong proponent for the safe integration of sUAS, ALPA has worked with the FAA and industry stakeholders to ensure that all new regulations continue to maintain the overall safety of our national airspace.

“The recent sUAS regulations that govern commercial operations of small UAS aircraft are missing a key component that would assure a standard level of aeronautical knowledge and training for all pilots operating UAS commercially. Throughout the rulemaking process, ALPA urged the FAA to take a stronger stance to ensure that those who remotely pilot sUAS for commercial purposes are fully trained and are able to demonstrate knowledge via written test and skills via flight test before they are issued a commercial pilot certificate for sUAS, just as pilots of manned aircraft operated for commercial purposes do.

“Another component that would help to strengthen aviation safety would be for Congress to give the FAA the ability to fully regulate the hobbyists and recreational flyers of sUAS. ALPA has been a strong advocate for correcting this legislative condition as it is imperative that the FAA is able to consistently promote the safe operation of unmanned aircraft systems for all airspace users.

“While today’s regulations contain beneficial safety provisions, such as limiting operations to line of sight, no night-time operations, and not exceeding 400 feet in altitude, ALPA believes that more can be done to further advance the safe integration of sUAS for both commercial operators and hobbyists. We remain committed to continuing our work with the FAA and industry stakeholders as we collectively help to advance the unparalleled safety record of U.S. aviation.”

Founded in 1931, ALPA is the largest airline pilot union in the world and represents over 54,000 pilots at 31 U.S. and Canadian airlines. Visit the ALPA website at www.alpa.org or follow us on Twitter @WeAreALPA.

-###-

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