The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted an exemption that will allow Navigation Electronics, Inc. (nei) to conduct commercial operations of the Trimble® UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution in the U.S.. The exemption was granted pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, which authorizes the FAA to grant exemptions from FAA rules limiting commercial operation of Unmanned Aerial Systems pending the adoption of permanent rules. Section 333 exemptions are intended to “provide a pathway for civil operators who desire safe and legal entry” into the U.S. national airspace.
“We are pleased to be among the first Trimble Geospatial Dealers to receive an exemption from the FAA authorizing the commercial operation of UAS. NEI can now conduct our flight demonstrations and operations as necessary in accordance with the Certificates of Waiver or Authorization (COA) requirement. This decision reflects Trimble’s dedication to both responsible and safe operation of UAS within the U.S. while the FAA addresses air safety issues in opening the National Airspace System (NAS) for commercial UAS operations on a broader scale. Both Trimble and NEI will continue efforts to support the FAA’s decision-making process and to provide opportunities for our customers to safely use the UX5 to capture accurate geospatial data for a wide range of applications.”
— Chad Hicks
UAS Solutions Lead
For more information on Trimble UAS and obtaining your FAA Section 333 Exemption please contact chad@neigps.com.