From the Ground Up: New Rules for All Drones Entering the National AirSpace

Sales of recreational drones have exploded and there is an exponential growth in their use in the National AirSpace (NAS). At the same time, airline pilots are reporting that near misses with drones are becoming all too common. In response to this, the FAA not only requires commercial drone operators to register their aircraft, but it it is now requiring recreational drone operators to do the same.

Per the FAA, any aircraft operating commercially in the NAS requires a certified and registered aircraft, a licensed pilot, and operational approval. The new registration requirement does not affect commerical drone pilots, like myself, who are currently FAA approved. It is an attempt, however, to hold all drone pilots entering the NAS accountable, including those flying recreationally.

So whether you are a commercial drone pilot or a hobbyist the deadline to get your drone regsitered is February 19, 2016. For more information check out the article published by Wired Magazine, How to Register a Drone.