Due to the increase number of Unmanned Aerial Systems operations the FAA has updated their enforcement guidelines for violations of drone operators. These updated hold certificated aircraft pilots to a higher standard than other drone operators and could potentially lead to stiffer penalties.


The guideline changes to the Compliance and Enforcement Handbook for FAA inspectors state the enforcement action against drone operators may be take when appropriate. It goes on to list consideration the inspector should take into account when deciding an appropriate action to pursue, and to what degree penalties should be doled out.

The documentation specifically mentions certified aircraft pilots - "a certificate holder should appreciate the potential for endangerment that operating a UAS contrary to the FAA's safety regulations may cause." A violator's status as a certified pilot can therefore be considered a factor when determining the appropriate civil penalties, which are usually compensated as fines. According to the new guidance a pilot's certificate is up for revocation or suspension as seen fit by the inspector. Now a pilot puts their full scale aircraft license on the line every time a drone is operated.


These changes come just days after the FAA cancels a 33 year-old advisory circular setting voluntary standards for operating remote controlled aircraft. The FAA now says the old model airplane guidelines are superseded by a section of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act that also "provides guidance to the model aircraft industry." The previous standard was advisory in nature and provided a framework that the RC hobby community has adhered to for many years. Now all remote controlled aircraft operators including drones are subject to regulations that include provisions for enforcement and penalties. The FAA plans to release an updated advisory at a later date outlining guidelines to operate under current policy.