Revisiting the Permit Requirement
for Private Property Takeoffs
Currently, NYC mandates a permit for drone takeoffs from private property. However, the jurisdiction of NYC pertains only to access to and exit from national airspace, with FAA regulations governing in-flight activities. We advocate for allowing commercial drone operations to take off and land on private property without needing a separate permit, provided the NYPD is notified of UAV operations in the area.
Streamlining the Drone Permit Process
The current permit timeline with the NYPD poses significant challenges. First-time applicants can wait up to 30 days, and subsequent permits take up to 14 days. These durations are impractical for many productions, leading operators to risk non-compliance or missed opportunities. We propose a streamlined permitting process that takes no longer than 3 to 4 days, ensuring that production teams receive necessary permits well in advance of their operations. This change is essential to foster compliance and effective collaboration between drone operators and local regulations.
Fast-Track Notification System for Breaking News Coverage
Drones are crucial for breaking news coverage, offering minimal risk compared to traditional methods. To utilize drones effectively, commercial operators employed by news networks should have access to a fast-track notification system for the NYPD. This system would involve presenting a letter from the network confirming the drone usage request and ensuring all airspace operation requirements are met, especially in controlled airspace.
Tax Credit for Hiring Local Commercial Drone Operators
To foster growth in NYC's commercial drone industry, we propose offering a tax credit for hiring local operators. Currently, NYC operators face unfair disadvantages compared to their counterparts nationwide. Implementing a tax credit system for contractors employing local drone operators will provide a much-needed boost, enabling the industry to catch up and thrive in the local market.
