The FAA today announced the largest civil penalty thus far against a UAS operator for posing a threat to airspace safety. The $1.9 million fine, which eclipses the previous record of $19,000 for a UAS operator, was levied against Chicago-based aerial photographer SkyPan International, based on an alleged 65 unauthorized flights the company conducted between March 21, 2012, and Dec. 14, 2014, around New York and Chicago.
According to the FAA, 43 of the flights were performed in Class B airspace in New York City without air traffic control clearance, and the aircraft operators in question were not equipped with a two-way radio, nor did the aircraft have transponders and altitude-reporting equipment. The aircraft also lacked an airworthiness certificate and effective registration, while the operator did not have a certificate of waiver or authorization to conduct the flights.
The agency alleges the company violated airspace regulations and operated in a careless or reckless manner, endangering lives and property. “Flying unmanned aircraft in violation of the FARs is illegal and can be dangerous,” said FAA Administrator Michael Huerta. “We have the safest airspace in the world, and everyone who uses it must understand and observe our comprensive set of rules and regulations.” SkyPan has 30 days from receipt of the FAA’s notification to respond to the allegations.