Helicopter Association International (HAI) has released the following statement regarding the decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals relating to drone registration:
“Helicopter Association International (HAI) strongly disagrees with the decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals to halt the registration of drones deemed to be “model aircraft.” Helicopters routinely operate at the same low altitudes as drones, and we in the helicopter industry are deeply concerned about our ability to fly safely in air space where pilots could encounter any unmanned aircraft, be it commercial or otherwise.
“One valuable component of the FAA’s [Federal Aviation Administration’s] drone registration program is the opportunity to educate the general population about the hazards of careless drone operation, and we believe that the FAA’s drone registration program serves to protect everyone in the air and on land.
“HAI strongly urges Congress to allow the FAA to do what the FAA does best; to provide safe and efficient use of our national airspace. We request that the FAA be given the governance and oversight over all forms of aircraft in order to ensure the safety of the National Airspace System.”
