Community reacts to drone regulations

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) —  Drones have become more and more popular for both commercial and recreational use. Now, the federal regulators want to require those with drones to register them.

The more people that use drones, the higher the safety risk which is why the federal government is stepping in.

The FAA and the transportation department are setting up a 25- to-30-member task force to figure out the details including which should be required to be registered and which should be exempted.

Cape Fear Regional Jetport Airport Director Howie Franklin says he thinks this is a step towards the right direction.

“We have families that fly in here,” says Franklin. “Grandfathers and grandmothers, kids, all passengers, so we want to protect them and we want to protect even the drones and the drone people to stay out of whatever harms way.”

Cape Fear Drones Founder Kent McIntire says he has had a drone for 2 years and doesn’t have any problems with the new regulations.

“It doesn’t impact me negatively,” said McIntire. “If anything I’m glad the government is doing something. My friends who fly drones aren’t really that bothered.”

Experts are even saying drones will be one of the top selling items this Christmas.

Franklin said, “It must be fun because people are buying them.”

“I figure a lot of caution and common sense will take you most of the way,” said McIntire.

The Wilmington International Airport and the Cape Fear Regional Jetport have not had any problems with drones flying too close to the airports and hopes the regulations keep it that way.