Drone technology has the potential to impact many industries, including surveying, civil engineering and construction.
New FAA rules went into effect on August 29, 2016. According to an article by CNBC:
New rules by the U.S. Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) go into effect Monday, clarifying what is acceptable commercial usage of small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones.
Commercial drones must weigh less than 55 pounds, fly up to a maximum of 400 feet in altitude, at a speed of no more than 100 miles per hour, and can only be operated during daytime and up to 30 minutes before sunrise and after sunset, according to the FAA rules. Drone operators must also qualify for flying certificates and be at least 16 years old.
Previously, drone operators had to apply for special waivers from the FAA—a time-consuming and pricey process—to use UAVs for business.
source: http://www.cnbc.com/2016/08/29/faas-new-drone-laws-go-into-effect-monday-allowing-us-companies-to-innovate.html
The FAA requires drone operators to pass a general aeronautical knowledge test. Here is an article with a detailed list of requirements
I think the passage of the new drone rules is a pivotal point in the land surveying industry.
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