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TechDrones

The FAA Allowed Drones to Fly at an Airport for the First Time Ever

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Justin Worland
Justin Worland
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By
Justin Worland
Justin Worland
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February 2, 2017, 7:58 AM ET
drone atlanta airport faa
Drone with camera and gimbal fitted.Richard Newstead—Getty Images

A drone circled above the world’s busiest airport last month, the first time U.S. aviation regulators have granted permission for such a flight, according to a report.

On Jan. 10, the California firm 3D Robotics conducted a total of seven flights at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to survey two parking structures that are set to be demolished, Recode reports.

The flights marked the first time the Federal Aviation Administration has granted a special waiver for drones to fly at the airport. Drones pose a safety risk for pilots who could find them distraction, though many people have flown them near airports despite restrictions.

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