FAA Grants AIG Permission To Do Inspections With Drones

The FAA has held a tight fist around its drone permissions, and though some have been granted permission for specific activities, the number of permissions given have been relatively small. That doesn't mean the FAA won't grant permission when it sees a reason to, and latest to receive its grace is insurer AIG, which joins USAA and State Farm in the freedom to use drones for conducting inspections. As with past cases, however, there are limitations on how they can be used.

The information comes from the Wall Street Journal, which is reporting that AIG (American International Group Inc.) has been granted permission by the FAA to use drones for US inspections. AIG joins both USAA and State Farm, which both have previously been granted permission for testing drones.

The companies must adhere to certain limitations, however, such as only flying the drones over private property and controlled access property if the owner grants permission. The majority of urban areas must be avoided, as well as all airports. Drone operation is only allowed to take place during daylight hours, and with only limited exceptions, all flights must be at least 500ft. from cars, people, and other structures.

The drones offer a big advantage over human-lead inspections, however, including the ability to get to places where humans can't. Condemned buildings are one example, where the hazards delay human inspections, and property damaged by hurricanes/tornados/floods are another. Drones can also expedite the claims process by getting aerial footage quickly.

SOURCE: Wall Street Journal