Drone sightings in decline
A new study from the The Academy of Model Aeronautics has reported that drone sightings by airplane pilots are in decline, despite the growth of sales. Only 3.3% of drone sightings were categorised as near misses by the pilots, showing recent educational efforts and registration requirements are having a positive impact.

WASHINGTON — A new report suggests that drone pilots are now flying more responsibly amid heightened public concerns over the dangers of the unmanned aerial vehicles.

The Academy of Model Aeronautics analyzed FAA data and found that even as drone sales surge, drone sightings by airplane pilots have declined. Aviation safety experts have long warned that a drone sucked into an airplane engine could be devastating, hence restrictions that require drones to stay far from helicopters and airplanes.

‘‘It looks like we’re getting the message out there,’’ said Rich Hanson, the academy’s government and regulatory affairs representative.