Crew Chief Applauds FAA's New Drone Regulations Plan
CASTLE ROCK, Colo. (CBS4) - There are expected to be more than a million drones in use in the U.S. by the end of the year.
Now, after a series of issues, federal regulators are requiring all recreational users to register their drones with the government.
"It's a safety issue," says Jeff Armstrong.
The Castle Rock man owns Rampart Helicopter Services. He contracts out his million dollar helicopters to the government, Jefferson County, Douglas County, and others.
He uses the aircraft to fight fires and conduct search and rescue missions, among other things. Armstrong says drones have recently become a major issue.
"I see no reason why people should be able to buy a toy in the store and be in the same airspace we're in without any guidance," he told CBS4.
The FAA received 137 reports in July where pilots reported seeing drones at altitudes as high as 10,000 feet. Pilots say the drones have become an increasing danger.
Armstrong applauds the FAA's new drone registration requirement.
"I think they need to do it, " he says. "When you're sharing airspace, you're really sharing airspace. It doesn't matter what size it is. When the two things meet it's not going to be pretty for someone."
Armstrong says his fellow pilots have seen drones while fighting wildfires. He believes the potential for disaster is there.
"They're going to lose a $1,000 drone, we're going to lose a $1 million aircraft."
And with more and more drones hitting the skies, Armstrong says education is the key.
"Teaching people, there's a place for your equipment. There's a place it should be, and when an aircraft is working, you shouldn't be there," he said.
The federal government hopes to have the new registration policy officially in place by Christmas, which is the busiest time of the year for drone purchases.
Tom Mustin is CBS4's Weekend Anchor. He has been with CBS4 since 2002, and is always looking for great story ideas. Follow Tom on Twitter @TomCBS4.
