What is Section 2209 Why it’s Important to Drone Industry

News and Commentary. What is Section 2209 of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016 – and why is it so critical to the drone industry that stakeholders are urging the FAA to implement it as soon as possible?

What is Section 2209?

Simply, Section 2209 requires the FAA to establish defined boundaries protecting “critical infrastructure” from unauthorized drones.  In reality, it’s a complex problem. The FAA must define the sites which are prohibited to drones – possibly working with state and local governements to decide which places should be designated as “fixed site facilities.”  From oil refineries to amusement parks, the Act also allows for “other locations that warrant such restrictions,” which leaves the category of fixed sites wide open to interpretation.

From H.R. 636, the FAA Extension, Safety and Security Act of 2016:

(Sec. 2209) DOT shall establish procedures for applicants to petition the FAA to prohibit or restrict the operation of…