Inhofe Voices Concerns About FAA Foot Dragging for Drone Users

Oklahoma U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe wanted brief answers and he got them this week from U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao who appeared before the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.

He raised two concerns including the Trump administration’s proposal to privatize the Federal Aviation Administration’s air traffic control system.

“If this becomes a discussion in the administration, I’d like to be a part of that discussion. We’ve had very good successes with our contract towers and we would have serious problems without them. Does that seem reasonable to you?” asked the Senator.

“Yes,” came the quick reply from Secretary Chao.

Inhofe’s other concern raised during his questioning period focused on the FAA control of non-line-of-sight drones. He suggested the government’s been slow in approving permits to allow such drones to be used in checking oil and gas pipelines and power lines.

“They’re dragging their feet and it should be done much more effectively,” he said at the conclusion of his remarks.

Check out the Senator’s questioning of Chao as shown on the McCarville Report.