Communications of the ACM
UPS Drones Win FAA Milestone Permission to Take Off Shackles
UPS has received Federal Aviation Administration approval to use aerial drones for deliveries.
Credit: Ho/Agence France-Presse/Getty Images
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted United Parcel Service (UPS) permission to fly delivery drones under regulations similar to airline rules, with few restrictions.
The courier can use the drones at hospital, university, and corporate campuses, including allowances to fly after dark and above people.
UPS said it has made more than 1,000 drone test flights at the WakeMed hospital campus in North Carolina, including the first flight outside the operator's line of sight.
UPS CEO David Abney said the company eventually will use drones for residential deliveries, most likely in rural in suburban regions.
The FAA certification stipulates use of manuals, training routines, maintenance plans, and a safety program, and it can ease acquisition of exemptions at sites other than campuses.
From Bloomberg
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