FCC Paves Way for Drones and Flying Taxis in US Skies
Published Date: 3/17/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FCC wants to update rules to help new flying tech like drones and air taxis work better and safer. They’re opening up special radio bands for better control and communication, making licenses easier to get, and improving in-flight internet. These changes could speed up cool flying tech and affect companies using these airwaves soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
450 MHz Band Nationwide Licensing
The FCC proposes opening the 450 MHz band to aeronautical command-and-control operations and allowing a single, nationwide license. It would also adopt flexible licensing, operating, and technical rules to enable robust use across a range of altitudes while minimizing interference.
Modernize In-Flight Connectivity Power Rules
The FCC proposes modernizing legacy power rules for Commercial Aviation Air-Ground Systems in the 849–851 MHz and 894–896 MHz bands that are used for in-flight connectivity. The proposal would update power-related technical rules for those specific frequency bands.
Expand 24.45–24.65 GHz for UAS Detection
The FCC proposes expanding radiolocation operations in the 24.45–24.65 GHz band for uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) detection operations. The change is aimed at enabling detection uses of that specific 24.45–24.65 GHz frequency range.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-11653 — Information Collection Being Submitted for Review and Approval to Office of Management and Budget
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is asking the public and other agencies to comment on a paperwork update that aims to make things easier, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. They want to reduce the hassle of filling out forms and need approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to keep collecting this info. Comments are due by July 13, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
2026-11452 — Information Collections Being Submitted for Review and Approval to Office of Management and Budget
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is asking the public and small businesses to share their thoughts on how to make government paperwork easier and less time-consuming. They want feedback by July 8, 2026, to help reduce the burden, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. This is part of a plan to keep things simple and efficient without costing extra money or time.
2026-11450 — Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is asking the public and agencies to share their thoughts on how it collects information to make sure it’s useful and not too much work. They want to cut down on paperwork, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. If you want to comment, you’ve got until August 7, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to help shape smarter rules!
2026-11353 — Reforming the High-Cost Program for an All-IP Future, Connect America Fund: A National Broadband Plan for Our Future High-Cost Universal Support
The FCC is updating its High-Cost Program to better support broadband in rural and hard-to-reach areas, making sure networks are ready for the future with faster, smarter internet. This change helps boost American tech leadership and supports the shift to modern internet systems, with feedback due by early September 2026. It’s about making sure everyone stays connected as technology zooms ahead!
2026-10840 — Privacy Act of 1974; Matching Program
The FCC and USAC are teaming up with Kentucky’s health department to double-check who really qualifies for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which help low-income folks get discounted internet and phone service. This new computer matching program starts July 1, 2026, runs for 18 months, and aims to keep these benefits fair and on track. If you want to speak up, send your comments by July 1, 2026!
2026-10839 — Privacy Act of 1974; Matching Program
The FCC and USAC are teaming up with New Mexico’s Health Care Authority to double-check who qualifies for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which help low-income folks get discounted internet and phone services. This new matching program starts July 1, 2026, runs for 18 months, and aims to keep these benefits fair and accurate. If you’re involved, now’s the time to send your comments by July 1, 2026!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-04096 — Security Zones; Tampa Bay: Big Bend, Boca Grande, Crystal River, East Bay, Hillsborough Bay, MacDill Air Force Base, Manbirtee Key, Old Port Tampa, Port Manatee, Port Tampa, Port St. Petersburg, Port Sutton, Rattlesnake, and Weedon Island, FL
The Coast Guard wants to remove the security zone around the old Chemical Formulators Chlorine Facility in Tampa Bay because the facility is permanently closed. This means boats can move freely through the area again. If you’re a boater or local resident, this change could make water travel easier and safer, and the Coast Guard is asking for your thoughts before making it official.
Next: 2025-04008 — Review of the Commission's Rules Governing the 896-901/935-940 MHz Band
The FCC wants to make it easier for companies to use a chunk of the 900 MHz band for faster internet by letting them work out deals directly. They’re asking for feedback on updating the rules to support this change and might lift the current pause on some applications soon. This could speed up broadband access and open new opportunities for businesses in certain counties.