USDOT proposes drone restrictions for rail, infrastructure sites

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) on Wednesday issued a proposed rule through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that would allow companies — including railroads — to apply for restrictions on drone operations around their critical infrastructure sites.

Comments on the proposed rule can be submitted through July 5. The rule would establish a two-tier restriction on drone operations in eligible critical infrastructure zones. One requires drone operators to meet specific safety and security standards to operate in the zones, and another would bar any drone usage in the zones unless authorized by the FAA and the sponsoring agency. 

If approved, the FAA would create a website on which companies could apply for drone restrictions on their sites. Applicants must demonstrate that drone restriction is necessary for aviation safety, national security or protection of people and property. Railroads that use drones in their own operations, for example, could apply for restrictions at their sites to ensure there are no outside drones in the airspace.

Approved restricted zones would have defined boundaries, and violators could face civil or criminal penalties, USDOT officials said in a press release. 

Proposed eligible site categories include transportation systems, industrial manufacturing and chemical facilities, commercial sites, public utilities, public services, technology hubs and government facilities.