Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, are
taking to the American skies in record numbers to conduct
commercial activities in response to recent changes in the law.
Commercial drone businesses are climbing in numbers thanks to the
FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012. Under this law,
businesses can apply for a "Section 333 exemption" to the
prohibition on commercial drone operations.
As of July 21, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has
granted 823 exemptions to drone operators to commence their
businesses. The permitted uses range from aerial photography to
precision aerial mapping and agricultural assessment. Drones are
also playing an integral role in saving lives as one drone company
received clearance to drop a special delivery of pharmaceuticals
and medical supplies in a rural Virginia county. The FAA is
granting the Section 333 exemptions on a case-by-case basis prior
to the finalization of FAA regulations expected to come in
