The FAA is reportedly preparing to allow filmmakers to operate drones

In a major decision that is likely to set the stage for more commercial drone flights, the Federal Aviation Administration is planning to announce Thursday that it will permit Hollywood filmmakers to operate drones on movie sets, according to current and former U.S. officials. The FAA has long enforced a de facto ban on the use of drones for commercial purposes. But under a 2012 law passed by Congress, the agency is developing rules that will eventually legalize the practice and allow drones of all sizes to operate in the national airspace. Prior to this week, the FAA had granted permits to only two companies to fly drones — both in remote parts of Alaska under highly restrictive conditions. The decision to allow several movie-making companies to use drones is the first time that businesses will be able to operate the aircraft in populated areas. The FAA has been evaluating applications since May from seven video-production firms that want to use camera-equipped drones on movie sets instead of regular helicopters or airplanes, which are more costly to operate.