Urgent call for US drone register

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

Anthony Foxx said a taskforce had been set up to examine creating a record of drones and their users.

The move comes after several reported incidents of drones hindering emergency services` efforts in fighting fires and other dangers.

The problem is seen as particularly pressing 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 kind of drones should be exempt from the database, such as those bought as toys.

"We feel the level of urgency 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, especially with new users who have no experience operating in the U.S. aviation system. It will help protect public safety in the air and on the ground." -BBC