FAA releases long-awaited drone regulations

The Federal Aviation Administration on Sunday finally released proposed rules regarding the use of small commercial drones.

The rules, which apply to drones weighing up to 55 pounds, would limit the devices to speeds up to 100 mph and altitudes no higher than 500 feet. Pilots would need to pass a written test to operate drones, and would be prohibited from flying them at night.

"We want to maintain today's outstanding level of aviation safety without placing an undue regulatory burden on an emerging industry," FAA Administrator Michael Huerta said.

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The rules will go through a 60-day public comment period and are expected to take several more months to finalize after that.