FAA Exemption for UAS Agricultural Services Over 55 lbs

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reviewing a petition for exemption filed by Perlee Ag Services LLC. The petition seeks authorization to conduct commercial agricultural services using unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) weighing 55 pounds or more. Specifically, the exemption would allow for the simultaneous operation of up to three UAS by a single pilot in command, without the need for a visual observer, during night operations under visual meteorological conditions. It also requests medical relief for day operations.

This consultation presents an opportunity for interested parties to provide comments on the potential implications of granting such an exemption. Regulated entities, particularly those in the agricultural sector utilizing or considering UAS technology, should review the petition and consider submitting comments by the specified deadline. Granting this exemption could set a precedent for similar operations and impact current regulatory frameworks for heavier UAS.