Trimble drone program gets cleared for takeoff
The Federal Aviation Administration has given a lift to four companies looking to accelerate the U.S. commercial drone industry, granting regulatory exemptions for their unmanned aircraft systems. The companies plan to fly drones to perform aerial surveying, construction site monitoring and oil rig flare stack inspections. The FAA on Wednesday gave exemptions to Trimble Navigation (TRMB), VDOS Global, Clayco and Woolpert. In September, the FAA granted exemptions to seven film and video production companies. “Unmanned aircraft offer a tremendous opportunity to spur innovation and economic activity by enabling many businesses to develop better products and services for their customers and the American public,” Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said in a statement. “We want to foster commercial uses of this exciting technology while taking a responsible approach to the safety of America’s airspace.” The latest approvals come as the FAA drafts comprehensive regulations for drones to share the…