Reaction to the FAA's long-awaited proposed rules for small unmanned aircraft has been guardedly positive, with advocates welcoming the relaxed certification standards but concerned that the operating restrictions could hinder commercial use. Associations representing manufacturers, general aviation and airlines welcomed the proposed regulations, but urged the FAA to expedite the final rule, which some estimate could take up to three years because of the large volume of public comments expected. Unmanned aircraft under 55 lb. will not require airworthiness certificates, and operators will not need pilots' licenses under the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) for small unmanned aircraft systems (SUAS). But operations will be restricted to daylight, under 87 kt. (100 mph) and 500 ft., and within unaided visual line-of-sight of the operator.
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