Sens. Markey, Thune seek remote identification rule for drones

U.S. Sens. Edward Markey (D-MA) and John Thune (R-SD) are urging the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to publish a proposed rule for remote identification of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), also called drones.

Remote identification would allow the public, the FAA, law enforcement, and others to track and identify drones and their operators during flight remotely. This action would help address the rise of unauthorized drone flights in sensitive areas, including near airports and large gatherings.

For example, a drone flew over Fenway Park during a Boston Red Sox game in April, potentially endangering fans, players, and stadium workers.

“In recent months, a series of UAS sightings in safety-sensitive areas have underscored the need to quickly adopt and implement remote identification,” Markey and Thune wrote to Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, who oversees the FAA. “Remote identification will enhance safety, security, and privacy, and serve as a critical tool for law enforcement to respond to and address reports of illegal and unauthorized drone operations.”

Markey and Thune are members of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.

They are asking Chao to provide action steps that need to be taken to develop a proposed rule on remote identification by July 21.