Per FAA standards, what is an unmanned aerial vehicle?

Question

Are there any operation limitations? Any limits on size, weigh, speed, altitude, operational area?

Reference to FAA regulations, guidance, notices or orders will be appreciated.

Answer 1

I also wondered this. I looked into Federal Aviation Regulations and The  Federal Communications Commision for UAV reg's and restrictions. They dont seem to recognize UAV's.

From what I've read the General Dynamics Predator "Altair" is the only UAV to recieve a FAA certification "experimental" and clearance to  fly in controlled airspace. Although it does most its flying at very high altitudes where air to air collision is unlikely probably aided in its cert. http://theuav.com/altair_uav.html

As far as the FCC goes, "Section 97.215 Telecommand of model craft", is all I could dig up. I guess they are UFO's for now.

Answer 2

if it is large enough to be detected on flight control radar, then it is considered an unmanned airborne vehicle.

otherwise, its just a toy.

Answer 3

um... an unmanned aerial vehicle?

Answer 4

Currently it appears that the FAA is approving these on a case-by-case basis to operate under the rules of 14 CFR 91 just like any airplane, but they must have an experimental airworthiness certificate as well, just like a home-built aircraft.

http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/head...

http://www.aopa.org/whatsnew/regulatory/...

Answer 5

to be of some help.. the JAA states...

the UAV is any aircraft designed to operate without a human pilot onboard. The definition explicitely INCLUDES aircraft models /the flyable of course/

besides usual safety restrictions, the UAV may not be operated in range less than 5500m from the airport refference point unless cleared bz the airport operator

UAV maz not be operated within the CTR unless cleared bz the responsible ATC clearance

may not be operated through the nightime

with exception of the UAVs designed to operate off the visual contact with operator, the UAV should be in range of 700 meters or less from its ground based pilot.