As a PP, GA enthusiast, A/C mechanic, and being raised in a family of aviation, I still believe the benefits outweigh any over regulation.
Now, that being said, I believe operators should take a minimalistic class, similar to ground school which should teach airspace, regulations, and radio communication. I do not believe a CoA or Pilots certificate is necessary, and I personally believe if the FAA takes this route there will will be trouble.
I personally believe we, as GA enthusiasts should be able to compromise, although none of us want to give up our airspace.
The safest way (in my opinion) to implement UAV's into the GA:
Hobbyists: allow up to 300 ft with 200 ft seperation from any building. Only allowable flights are class g, with implemented airspace blocks in the software which will not allow flying in designated class B, C or D.
Commercial: This category would have a few different ratings, dependent on size of craft. These ratings would allow the user to fly within proximity of the point of interest (for example, within inches of a building, power line, etc.) This certificate would have differing altitude restrictions depending on rating. The ratings would include light, medium and heavy aircraft (up to 55 pounds, fixed wing). All ratings would require a similar class to ground school, being trained on communication, airspace, etc, meanwhile being able to provide 2 hours of proof (camera or data logs) for manual flight, and 8 hours of hobbyist use, all flying
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