Search

No Hazmat Allowed on Drones, Says FAA

Posted on 6/28/2016 by Roger Marks

When we talk about shipping hazardous materials by ground, air, and vessel, we typically look to Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR). Today, a US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Final Rule added to 14 CFR piqued our interest.

The Final Rule lays out requirements for the safe operation of “small unmanned aircraft systems,” or UAS, commonly called “drones.” In addition to operational limitations, like a weight limit of 55 lbs. for drones, distance restrictions, and more, the Final Rule answers a question that Lion instructors, researchers, and staff have been talking about for a while now: Can drones transport hazmat?
Drone or UAS carrying cargo
For now, the answer is no. Among the operational limitations listed in FAA’s June 28 Final Rule is the unequivocal bullet point: “No carriage of hazardous materials.” 

Curious about drones? See the full list of rules for 14 CFR Part 107 in today’s Federal Register.
So, if you see a drone fly over your house in the near future, rest assured that—at least for now—it should not be hauling hazmat.

IATA Training for Hazmat Air Shippers


If you need to ship hazmat by air, it seems a traditional airplane is still your best bet! Be confident you know the latest IATA DGR rules for hazmat air shipments at the Hazardous Materials Air Shipper Certification Workshop. Covering the latest IATA requirements (57th edition), this workshop will help you build on your 49 CFR knowledge to master the unique, additional rules for hazmat air shipments.

The IATA DGR requires air shippers to complete training once every 24 months (IATA DGR 1.5). Can’t make the workshop? Check out all of your IATA air shipper options—like a 24/7 online course and a live, instructor-led webinar—here.

Tags: hazmat, new rules, shipping

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

My experience with Lion classes has always been good. Lion Technology always covers the EPA requirements I must follow.

Steven Erlandson

Environmental Coordinator

No comparison. Lion has the best RCRA training ever!!

Matt Sabine

Environmental Specialist

I really enjoyed this training. Even after years on both sides of the comprehension coin, I find myself still learning! The quality of the delivery exceeded much of the training I have received in the past.

Neil Ozonur

Safety Officer

Convenient; I can train when I want, where I want.

Barry Cook

Hazmat Shipping Professional

Very witty instructor, made the long times sitting bearable. One of the few training courses I can say I actually enjoyed.

John Hutchinson

Senior EHS Engineer

Lion's information is very thorough and accurate. Presenter was very good.

Melissa Little

Regulatory Manager

The instructor was very dedicated to providing a quality experience. She did her best to make sure students were really comprehending the information.

Stephanie Venn

Inventory Control Specialist

Lion does a great job summarizing and communicating complicated EH&S-related regulations.

Michele Irmen

Sr. Environmental Engineer

The instructor kept the class engaged and made learning fun. There was a lot of information to cover but time flew by. I will definitely use Lion in the future!

Chelsea Minguela

Hazmat Shipping Professional

I have attended other training providers, but Lion is best. Lion is king of the hazmat jungle!!!

Henry Watkins

Hazardous Waste Technician

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

In-flight hazmat incidents can be disastrous. This guide gives 5 tips for first-time air shippers to consider before offering dangerous goods for transportation on passenger or cargo aircraft.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.