Amazon Sets Sights on Drone Delivery
Also deeming safety as its No. 1 mission, the FAA currently only allows private companies to conduct testing of drones after receiving clearance to do so.
Used for military operations previously, unmanned aerial vehicles have been used in the public sector since their National Airspace System debut in 1990 to assist in missions in the public interest, such as firefighting, disaster relief, search and rescue, law enforcement and boarder patrol. Operations are permitted up to 50,000 feet, but are prohibited over major urban areas due to an increase in manned aircraft in those areas.
Amanda L. Cole is the editor-in-chief of NonProfit PRO. She was formerly editor-in-chief of special projects for NonProfit PRO's sister publication, Promo Marketing. Contact her at acole@napco.com.