Guidelines for Flying Drones/Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center must comply with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements and applicable state and local laws and regulations for drones/unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). All drones/UAS operations for commercial or business purposes are subject to FAA regulation. In order for public universities to operate UAS for research purposes, they must apply for and be granted a certificate of authorization (COA) or have a remote pilot certificate from the FAA. Student/Hobbyists have been granted an exception if they meet the requirements set forth by the FAA.

The following requirements MUST be met before obligating the institution:

• One of the following from the FAA:
• Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA)
• Remote Pilot Certificate (or Pilot Certificate with current flight review)
• Meet the Hobbyist/Student Exception
• Compliant with the FAA regulations.

• Certificate of insurance approved by the Texas Tech Office of Risk Management.
• UAS request form approved by a local Texas Tech Police Department representative.
• Compliant with privacy provisions under state law, including but not limited to Chapter 423 of the Texas Government Code.

Additional information can be found on the FAA website.