FAA: Merry Xmas, Now Register Those Drones

If you are one of the hundreds of thousands of Americans expected to be clogging the skies with drones they receive over the holidays, the FAA would like a word, and that word is "registration." As the Washington Post reports, the feds announced Monday new regulations that would require hobbyists to register all drones weighing between a half-pound and 55 pounds, and display the registration number on the drone. "As soon as they start flying, they’re pilots," says a deputy FAA administrator, who adds that most have "little to no aviation experience." A registration website is set to be unveiled Dec. 21. But while you might grumble about Big Brother, you won't go broke: The FAA is charging a $5 fee good for three years, which is waived for early birds who register in the first 30 days the website is up. (More drones stories.)