U.S. Announces New 'Ground Rules' For Use Of Commercial Drones

The Federal Aviation Administration issued the first operational rules to govern the commercial use of drones on Tuesday. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said this was a "huge step for innovation." The 600-plus pages of new regulations require drone operators to pass a written exam every two years, keep the unmanned aircraft within sight and avoid flying it over people and at night. The rules also require drones to stay at least 5 miles from airports. The regulations, however, can be waived if operators show they can mitigate the risks associated with operating at night, flying over people, or operating beyond line of sight, among other things.