Federal Register #2026-07585

FAA Announces DETER Program for Expedited Enforcement of Small UAS Violations

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), under the Department of Transportation, has announced the Drone Expedited and Targeted Enforcement Response (DETER) Program, a new enforcement policy for small Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) violations. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation - Program Overview: - DETER Program accelerates enforcement actions against small UAS operators who violate FAA regulations - Establishes prompt settlement procedures for eligible first-time violators (both certificated and noncertificated individuals) - Incentivizes compliance by offering reduced civil penalties or certificate suspension periods in exchange for admitting liability and waiving appeals - Notable Requirements and Exclusions: - Targets careless, clueless, and criminal violations - Excludes cases involving alcohol/drug offenses, weaponized drones, criminal activity, Temporary Flight Restrictions, egregious conduct, or lack of qualifications - FAA retains discretion over eligibility and application of the program - OEMs and Vendors: - FAA is the only entity mentioned, as the government agency responsible for the program - No products or services are being procured or awarded; this is a regulatory enforcement policy announcement

Description

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announces the Drone Expedited and Targeted Enforcement Response (DETER) Program to expedite enforcement actions against small UAS operators violating FAA regulations. The program offers prompt settlement procedures for eligible first-time violators, incentivizing compliance by allowing reduced penalties in exchange for admitting liability and waiving appeals. It focuses on enhancing aviation safety by deterring careless and criminal drone operations and aligns with a presidential executive order on UAS enforcement. The policy is effective April 17, 2026.

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