Aviation Blog

October 21, 2015 | Drone Law

FAA Drone Registration Rulemaking Process: Will They Make It In Time?

The FAA drone registration rulemaking process may be more involved than Anthony Foxx and Michael Huerta are letting on. On October 19, in a joint news conference, the two aviation “bigwigs” announced their proposal to develop a drone/UAV registration system. This, of course, is the government’s response to ever-happening incidents between drones and other aircraft […]

October 15, 2015 | Pilot Law

“Pilot-In-Command” Insurance Exclusions

Most prudent pilots know that accidents happen. Despite expensive training and exercising an abundance of caution, the unexpected can happen…which is one reason why pilots purchase accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Did you know, however, that sometimes your accidental death policy will exclude coverage for accidents occurring when you are acting as a “pilot or […]

October 8, 2015 | Drone Law | Section 333 Exemption

Avoiding Civil Penalties for UAV Operations: Don’t Be the Next SkyPan International

As you may or may not know, the Federal Aviation Administration recently announced that it is expecting to fine SkyPan International, a Chicago-based drone company, a whopping $1.9 million for “endangering the safety of [American] airspace.” The announcement of this incredible enforcement action seems to be the FAA’s warning to the public that unauthorized UAV […]

October 5, 2015 | Pilot Law

PRIA: FAA Enforcement Actions And Your Aviation Career

Did you ever fall off your bike as a child and scrape your knee? If so, what did your mom do when she saw your “boo boo?” Did she pull out the Morton salt and pour it on the raw flesh? If she did, we’re sorry to hear that…but, if your mom is anything like […]

August 24, 2015 | Pilot Law

FAA Ramp Checks: A Survival Guide

You’ve landed, taxied to the ramp, and are tying your Cessna 172 down for the night. But who is that guy walking across the ramp toward your plane…oh no, it’s the FAA! When you see the badge clipped to his shirt that says “FAA” in big letters, you’ll probably want to climb into the baggage […]

August 19, 2015 | Drone Law | Section 333 Exemption

UAV Operations and the FAA’s New Enforcement Guidelines: We Can Do This The Easy Way or the Hard Way

UAVs are quickly becoming more regulated than the world’s oldest profession. Perhaps more regulation is necessary, however, as every time you turn on the news there is another DJI Phantom flying into the flightpath of a Boeing 737. On August 4, 2015, in an effort to prevent such violations by drone operators in the National […]

June 24, 2015 | Drone Law

These Private Eyes Are Watching You: Privacy Laws for Drone Operators

You’ve saved, shopped online, watched “unboxing” videos on YouTube, and read the owner’s manual, and now it’s time for you to take your new drone for its maiden voyage. The one question that may still be unanswered, however, is: how can you enjoy your drone, while not violating privacy laws? Imagine you decide to take […]

June 15, 2015 | Drone Law

The Potential Future of Commercial Drone Use Regulation: Limitations and Requirements Found in the Newly Proposed “Commercial UAS Modernization Act”

Recently, U.S. Senators Cory Booker and John Hoeven introduced Senate Bill 1314, “Commercial UAS Modernization Act,” with the intent of regulating the commercial use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UASs), commonly referred to as drones, within the U.S. National Airspace.

June 14, 2015 | Pilot Law

The Un-responsive Pilot: request to call the tower and Letters of Investigation – how the FAA wants to use your statements in an enforcement action

Imagine a beautiful Saturday afternoon with calm winds and high ceilings – the type of day that just beckons a pilot to go fly. You hop in your plane and off you go, soaring above all your worries and concerns. As you fly along without a care in the world, you unknowingly fly into class […]

June 2, 2015 | Drone Law | Section 333 Exemption

Don’t Drone In Liability: A brief look at drone liability and ways to protect a business operating Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

Without a doubt, starting a new business can be one of the most rewarding, and equally terrifying, experiences in anyone’s life. With the commercial availability and success of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly referred to as drones, many business entrepreneurs are starting new aviation businesses.