FAA's new rule requires the UAS to fly at maximum altitude of 500ft above ground level at maximum speed of 100mph. Photo: courtesy of Nevit Dilmen.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed new regulations on the commercial use of small drones in the country.

The agency’s proposal limits the flights of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), which are less than 55lb, to daylight and visual-line-of-sight operations.

The UAS will also be required to fly at maximum altitude of 500ft above ground level at a maximum speed of 100mph.

US Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said: "Technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace and this milestone allows federal regulations and the use of our national airspace to evolve to safely accommodate innovation."

"The agency’s proposal limits the flights of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), which are less than 55lb, to daylight and visual-line-of-sight operations."

UAS operators are required to clear an initial aeronautical knowledge test and obtain an unmanned aircraft operator certificate.

Other limitations for UAS operators include manoeuvring away from manned aircraft in case of a risk of collision, discontinue the flight if it would pose a hazard to other aircraft, assess weather conditions, airspace restrictions and the location of people to decrease risks.

Operators should also stay away from airport flight paths and restricted airspace areas, the FAA said.

FAA administrator Michael Huerta said: "We want to maintain today’s outstanding level of aviation safety without placing an undue regulatory burden on an emerging industry."

The FAA’s proposed rules are open for a 60-day period of public commentary, while the agency finalises the regulations.

The agency said it is discussing plans for additional rules to include microdrones, which weigh less than 4.4lb.

Image: FAA’s new rule requires the UAS to fly at maximum altitude of 500ft above ground level at maximum speed of 100mph. Photo: courtesy of Nevit Dilmen.