https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixSOaL9aXUA
This may result in the requirement that all drones and model flying craft have a transponder so they can be identified and regulated by the FAA. Many small people-carrying aircraft do NOT have to have a transponder.
It's feared that commercial drones will be assigned all low airspace over a city (Amazon, Domino's etc.), and hobbyist drones and planes will be denied this and relegated to only be able to fly in some deserted places in the middle of nowhere.
Think of all the youtubers, realtors, on and on who would be unable to do their work.
I own none of these, and live close to an airport so no drone-flying allowed here.
BUT, I see this as over-government regulation in favor of big business, with the millions of hobbyists/workers left in the cold unable to use their expensive craft.
An additional BUT, I can see that drones etc. could be used for terrorism, for example, so maybe there does need to be control over them.....
BUT, would a terrorist use a transponder? I think not, they'd tear it right out, or simply use a cessna or piper cub - that doesn't require a transponder and could be loaded with a big bomb...
I think that while this needs to be addressed, it is using a legitimate perceived fear to enable moneyed companies to dominate low airspace and deny the legitimate hobbyists, who have the same right to said airspace.
and I thought Republicans were supposed to be against big government and over-regulation!
I'm mad but a bit torn, and hope this comes out as something equitable and workable for the million(s) of RC aircraft and drone users.
Like I said, I don't have a drone etc. but I would want to be able to fly it if I did.