FAA warns of hazard -- a sky full of drones

     In all of 2014, a total of 238 drones were spotted by pilots, according to an FAA news release. As of Aug. 9 of this year, pilots had spotted more than 650 unmanned aircraft – about 81 per month.
     “The FAA wants to send out a clear message that operating drones around airplanes and helicopters is dangerous and illegal,” the statement said. “Unauthorized operators may be subject to stiff fines and criminal charges, including possible jail time.”
     If that seems a bit harsh, consider that some of these drones are causing problems. In September 2014, a helicopter taking firefighters to the scene of a blaze in California had to make a hard left after the pilot spotted a drone 10 feet from the windshield, according to an Associated Press report.
     Reports of close encounters with drones are being made by pilots of various types of aircraft, including commercial air carriers. During June of this year, 138 pilots reported drones at altitudes of up to 10,000 feet, according to the FAA. In June 2014, there were 16 reports.
     The FAA is supportive of an organization, “Know Before You Fly,” that teaches unmanned aircraft users how to operate within the rules. A program by the National Interagency Fire Center, “If You Fly, We Can’t,” aims to reduce interference with firefighting operations.
   The FAA also working with local police to find the people responsible for unauthorized drone flights. The agency encourages citizens to report unauthorized flights to local law enforcement. 

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     FAA selects sites for drone testing

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