Sorry for the late reply,
But here is an interesting link I found.
Particularly one of the comments made by one of the other readers.
"Keegan says:
March 10, 2014 at 10:05 am
I like the new column! Liked hearing some of the history too. For those interested, some relevant wikipedia knowledge is airspace classifications, in particular class G airspace:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airspace_class_(United_States)
When you really read the regs, uncontrolled airspace is just that, uncontrolled, as in anything goes. You can technically even fly IFR without a flight plan or radio contact with ATC (doesn’t mean its smart though). I personally see little difference between a manned airplane in IMC in class G and an unmanned drone in class G. Neither can “see and avoid” (unless the drone has FPV!).
That said, for those wanting to push the limits of the 400′ rule, I highly recommend learning about airspace classifications and how to read aeronautical charts.
http://www.skyvector.com is a great place to look at various charts for free to get familiar with them. At least staying in uncontrolled airspace will keep your drones and (more importantly) the other airplanes with humans on them away from each other.
An interesting trend to watch would be the increased reliance on GPS and worldwide wireless data networks for air traffic control. Traditional radio-based navaids are being phased out, and even radar coverage may be reduced (see
http://www.boeing.com/commercial/aeromagazine/articles/qtr_02_10/2/ ).
When every airplane in the sky can report its own speed and position essentially through the internet, reliance on radar and controller workload are reduced. Workloads are already being reduced by the recent introduction of CPDLC and automated deconfliction of flight plans (basically text messaging instead of voice transmissions over VHF radio). (
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Controller–pilot_data_link_communications)
What this means for small drones, I hope, is that this transition to a more automated, data-driven form of ATC will allow the FAA to safely open up more airspace to drones. It will certainly take time though. Ironically, the aviation world moves very slowly and carefully, especially when compared to the world of hacking typically covered on this website. The planes I fly were built closer in time to the Wright brothers in 1903 than to 2014! Do realize they move slowly because with human aviation the risks are extremely high. Ok, this post is way too long, I’m done. Thanks for the article!"