Although drones have been used in warfare and police actions, now these Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) are being proposed for use in, of all things, real estate!

Inman News tells MHProNews that finally the FAA is proposing some long-awaited drone rules governing the commercial use of small drones which could open the door for real estate agents to use them for marketing purposes without running the risk of drawing the ire of the FAA.

The proposed rules would cover small unmanned aerial systems weighing under 55 pounds and conducting non-recreational operations. The rules would also require that drone operators obtain certification, and they would only be able to use the UAS without line of sight during daylight hours.

The FAA advised that there is also “extensive discussion of the possibility” of a “more flexible framework” for “micro” unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) under 4.4 pounds. The FAA is asking for comments on this potential classification to determine whether it should be included in the final rules.

The proposed rules would also set operating limitations designed to minimize risks to other aircraft, people and property.

Such limitations would require that:

• A small UAS operator must always see and avoid manned aircraft. If there is a risk of collision, the UAS operator must be the first to maneuver away.
• The operator must discontinue the flight when continuing would pose a hazard to other aircraft, people or property.
• A small UAS operator must assess weather conditions, airspace restrictions, and the location of people to lessen risks if he or she loses control of the UAS.
• A small UAS may not fly over people, except those directly involved with the flight.
• Flights should be limited to 500 feet in altitude and no faster than 100 mph.
• Operators must stay out of airport flight paths and restricted airspace areas, and obey any FAA Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs).

Chris Polychron, president of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) recently expressed his approval of the use of drones in real estate operations. PR Newswire tells MHProNews that he said, “The proposed rules announced by the FAA for the commercial use of unmanned aerial vehicles are good news for property owners and Realtors who desire to embrace cutting-edge technology to enhance the process of buying and selling real estate with images gathered by unmanned aerial vehicles.” However, until the final rules are published, he said that NAR discourages members from using drones for commercial purposes to capture photography or video without an FAA exemption.

As time progresses, new applications for these UAS vehicles in business operations may be found. Perhaps they will offer some assistance to manufactured community investors in assessing the viability of potential new acquisitions and also assist in the effort to sell present holdings.  Perhaps there will be other uses as well. Welcome to the 21^st Century! ##

(Photo Credit: Inman News)

 

Article submitted by Sandra Lane to – Daily Business News – MHProNews.