Vertical Bar Media | Tech News

The Industry Will Open Up   Dallas-area residents are on the brink of witnessing a groundbreaking advancement in drone delivery services. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted Alphabet’s Wing Aviation and Zipline International approval to operate their delivery drones simultaneously over the Dallas and Fort Worth suburbs without the need for visual observers. This historic milestone, set to begin in August, signifies the first time commercial drones can operate beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) in the US, overcoming a significant hurdle in the drone delivery industry. The Significance of BVLOS Approval Traditionally, drone pilots are required to maintain a visual line of sight with their aircraft, a limitation that has restricted the potential of commercial drone operations. However, advancements in Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) traffic management (UTM) technology and procedures are enabling drones to fly safely and efficiently without the need for manual observa...

  Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21) has introduced new legislation targeting the commercial and recreational drone industries in the United States. The "Drones for First Responders Act," introduced on May 15th, 2024, aims to enhance the capabilities of first responders but threatens to undermine both commercial and recreational drone users. This article explores the implications of this bill, its potential consequences for drone enthusiasts and businesses, and the broader debate it has sparked. Overview of the Drones for First Responders Act The Drones for First Responders Act (H.R. 8416) proposes several key changes:Increase in Tariffs: The bill mandates a 5% annual increase in tariffs on drones manufactured in China, reaching up to 50% over four years. Additionally, a $100 surcharge would be applied starting in the fourth year. Ban on Chinese Components: By January 1, 2030, drones containing essential components (flight controllers, radios, cameras, etc.) made in China...