Drone rule considered for Grand Coulee Dam Airport

Grant County Port District 7 commissioners passed a resolution last Thursday adopting any future rules developed by the Federal Aviation Administration concerning drones flying near the airport.

The rule being considered may allow unmanned aerial vehicle flights within up to three miles of an airport when they have permission, but no flights higher than 500 feet.

A commercial operator who wants to fly a UAV near the airport to take pictures would first have to get permission from airport officials.

Recently a commercial drone operation was mounted near the airport, prompting the port district to go on record in regard to FAA future rules concerning drones.

Drone flying anywhere near the airport could be a threat to the safety of planes taking off or landing, port commissioners stated in their resolution.

Airport Manager Bob Babler, a pilot himself, said a collision with a drone could cause serious damage to an airplane.