Bill would let hobbyist drone pilots fly in more airspace without prior OK
Passed one chamberH.R. 6460Latest action
Sponsor: Tracey Mann · Representative · KS
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Recreational Drone Empowerment Act
119th Congress
Topics: Jobs & the economy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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The bill would let recreational drone pilots fly in certain Class E airspace without air traffic control authorization, expanding an exception now limited to Class G airspace.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The bill would amend federal aviation law so hobbyist drone pilots can fly without prior air traffic control authorization in certain Class E airspace, not just Class G airspace as current law allows. Specifically, it covers Class E airspace above Class G airspace and Class E airspace extending around Class B, C, D, or E surface areas.
Who does it affect?
Recreational drone hobbyists would gain more airspace where they can fly without special permission. The FAA and pilots of manned aircraft sharing that airspace would also be affected.
Why does it matter?
The change loosens coordination requirements between drone operators and air traffic control in specific airspace types near airports.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedDec 4, 2025
- House committee
- House vote
- SenateYou are here · Mar 25, 2026
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the House, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.