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

Given the choice, I would do all coursework this way. In-person courses go very fast without the opportunity to pause or repeat anything.

Ellen Pelton

Chemical Laboratory Manager

These are the best commercial course references I have seen (10+ years). Great job!

Ed Grzybowski

EHS & Facility Engineer

Lion is my preferred trainer for hazmat and DOT.

Jim Jani

Environmental Coordinator

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

Barry Cook

Hazmat Shipping Professional

The price was reasonable, the time to complete the course was manageable, and the flexibility the online training allowed made it easy to complete.

Felicia Rutledge

Hazmat Shipping Professional

This course went above my expectations from the moment I walked in the door. The instructor led us through two days packed with useful compliance information.

Rachel Stewart

Environmental Manager

Lion's training was by far the best online RCRA training I've ever taken. It was challenging and the layout was great!

Paul Harbison

Hazardous Waste Professional

The workshop covered a lot of information without being too overwhelming. Lion is much better, more comprehensive than other training providers.

George Alva

Manufacturing Manager

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

Steven Erlandson

Environmental Coordinator

Lion's course was superior to others I have taken in the past. Very clear in the presentation and the examples helped to explain the content presented.

George Bersik

Hazardous Waste Professional

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Some limited quantity reliefs are reserved for specific modes of transport. Use this guide to identify which reliefs you can capitalize on, and which do not apply to your operations.

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.