US opens up skies for commercial drone operators The Federal Aviation Administration unveils long-awaited new rules that clear the way for small, commercial drones to operate across US airspace. Under the FAA's rules, drone operators will be allowed to fly commercial craft weighing less than 55 pounds (25 kilograms) during daylight hours, provided they can maintain a clear view of the drone at all times. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES with director of University of Maryland Unmanned Aircraft Systems test site.