300,000 Small Unmanned Aircraft Registered in First 30 Days, Says FAA

The FAA reports nearly 300,000 new owners have registered their small unmanned aircraft since the Administration’s online registration system went live on December 21.

“I am pleased the public responded to our call to register,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx.  “The National Airspace System is a great resource and all users of it, including UAS users, are responsible for keeping it safe.”

To encourage registration, the FAA refunded the $5 application fee (for small unmanned aircraft that owners intend to use exclusively for recreational or hobby purposes). The refund period expired today.

The FAA’s registration rule applies to small unmanned aircraft that weigh between 0.55 lbs. and 55 lbs.  New owners must register before they fly their aircraft outdoors.  Anyone who operated a small unmanned aircraft before the registration system was launched on December 21, has until February 19, 2016 to register.

Owners can register to operate small unmanned aircraft here.  

Registration is easy. After entering the required information, owners receive a registration number and certificate to print out.  The certificate includes the registration number. All registered small unmanned aircraft must be clearly marked with this registration number. The registration is valid for three years.

The FAA reports that it continues to see a steady stream of registrations.  

 “The registration numbers we’re seeing so far are very encouraging,” said FAA Administrator Michael Huerta.  “We’re working hard to build on this early momentum and ensure everyone understands the registration requirement.”

Only those who intend to use their small unmanned aircraft exclusively for recreational or hobby purposes can register online at this time.

The FAA is working to make the online registration system available to non-model aircraft users–such as commercial operators–and expects this online registration will be available by March 21 of this year.