Effective Dates for FAA Remote ID and Ops Over People (+ Night Ops)
In the US, the final rules requiring remote identification of drones and allowing some flights over people, over moving vehicles and at night under certain conditions will go into effect on April 21, 2021. Part 107 currently prohibits drone operations over people, over moving vehicles and at night unless the operator obtains a waiver from the FAA. The new FAA regulations jointly provide increased flexibility to conduct certain small drone operations without obtaining a waiver.
Remote identification (Remote ID) requires identification of drones in flight as well as the location of their control stations or takeoff point.
The Operations Over People rule applies to pilots who fly under Part 107. The ability to fly over people and over moving vehicles varies depending on the level of risk a small drone operation presents to people on the ground. The rule allows operations based on four categories, which can be found in the rule’s Executive Summary (PDF). Additionally, this rule allows operations at night under certain conditions. Prior to flying under the new provisions, a remote pilot must pass the updated initial knowledge test or complete the appropriate updated online training course, which will be available on April 6, 2021.
The public can review both the Remote ID (PDF) and Operations Over People Rule (PDF) in the Federal Register.
