LAS VEGAS (AP) — Nevada officials are hoping the state will earn one of five guaranteed spots in a federal program intended to increase the number and complexity of drone flights.
The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported Wednesday that the Federal Aviation Administration sees the program as a way to further integrate drones with national airspace. While state officials see it as a way to solidify Nevada as a key hub for the drone industry.
The pilot program aims to have state, local and tribal governments partner with private-sector drone entities to test advanced drone operations, such as flying over people or flying a drone outside an operator's visual line of sight.
A Federal Aviation Administration spokesman did not return a request for comment regarding when winners will be announced. Applications are due Jan. 4.