'Urgent' call for US drone register

 

A national record of drones and their owners is immediately needed, the US transport secretary has said.

Anthony Foxx said a task-force had been set up to inspect creating a record of drones and their users.

The move comes after more than a few reported incidents of drones hindering emergency services' hard work in fighting fires and other dangers.

The difficulty is seen as particularly urgent as the number of drones given as Christmas presents this year is expected to soar.

The task force will issue a report on how the database will be implemented late next month.

Crucially, it will look at what type of drones should be excused from the database, such as those bought as toys.

"We feel the level of importance here is sufficient for us to move as quickly as we possibly can," Mr. Foxx said.

He added in a statement: "Registering unmanned aircraft will help build a culture of accountability and responsibility, particularly with new users who have no experience operating in the U.S. aviation system. It will help defend public safety in the air and on the ground."