The FAA’s Aviation Rulemaking Committee has recommended
that the FAA use a risk based analysis to determine what type of
UAS can be flown in close proximity to persons. While that is
undoubtedly the right approach, what does it really mean? What is
the risk the public is being exposed to? How much risk is too much?
Who, ultimately, decides where the line should be drawn? The Micro
UAS ARC Report is a good starting place, but it will hardly be the
last word.
In order to understand the ARC’s recommendations, some of
the technical jargon needs to be cleared away and put in more human
terms. The ARC Report recommends creating four categories of UAS.
Category 1 UAS, which weigh under 8.8 ounces, are considered
incapable of producing a serious injury and persons are free to fly
them in crowded areas under Part 107. Category 2 includes any UAS
that has less than a 1% chance of producing “an AIS level 3
or greater injury” if it hits someone. Category 3 and 4 are
limited to
