Otherwise known as “drones,” Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) will transform the economy and society in the decades ahead as profoundly as the Internet has over the past 30 years. By 2025, the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International predicts that the industry will employ more than 100,000 people with total revenues in excess of $80 billion.

   Autonomous Vehicles will have a similar and perhaps greater impact – making it possible for older American’s to stay in their homes long past the time they can no longer drive themselves, enabling kids and others to get around; virtually eliminating traffic related infractions and crimes and the list goes on.

   Kellington Law Group, P.C., stands ready to help the innovators, pioneers and governmental entities that are building this future with a depth of experience uncommon in such a young industry.

   Wendie Kellington has expertise in the national airspace system and has served as a member of the Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics (RTCA). She participated RTCA SC 228 to develop Minimum Operational Performance Standards (MOPS) for UAS airspace integration. She is a member of the Oregon Legislature’s Drone Work Group, and the Board of AUVSI Cascade. She has studied and written about the provocative societal changes autonomous vehicles will bring and the importance of state and local rules that enable this technology to flourish safely.

   While the drone rules established under Part 107 of the Federal Aviation Regulations have established a baseline for commercial drone operations, many specialized operations require waivers and special permission from the Federal Aviation Administration.

   Moreover, many operators as well as state, regional and local governments, including first responders, struggle with airspace rules and the balance between federal and state regulatory authority and responsibility. Kellington understands the balance of power between the federal and state government concerning the regulation of autonomous vehicles and stands ready to assist state and local governments to create useful regulatory frameworks.

   For help charting your course through the new era in aviation and automation, please contact us using the link below.