New Certificate of Waiver (COW) Process Streamlines Approvals for Public Safety Agencies
A Significant Shift in Regulatory Framework
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has introduced a groundbreaking update to the regulatory process for Drone as First Responder (DFR) operations. Chief (Ret.) Charles Werner of DRONERESPONDERS has described these changes as the most significant since 2016. The new Certificate of Waiver (COW) process replaces the traditional Certificate of Authorization (COA), simplifying and expediting approvals for public safety agencies utilizing drones in emergency response.
“This new process simplifies and expedites the DFR Waiver approval process and will have the most significance to date and will ultimately increase the number of agencies that start programs exponentially. I estimate in 2 years we will go from 40 DFR Programs today to over a thousand and beyond,” said Werner.
“The two big challenges in DFR were getting a human VO off of the roof (cost and weather prohibitive) and the complexity and time required for approval of the technology needed to do so.”
Consolidated Approval Process
Under the new system, all waivers are managed exclusively by FAA Flight Standards, with airspace authorization language already integrated into the waiver. This eliminates the need for dual approvals from both Flight Standards and the Air Traffic Organization (ATO). By consolidating the process, public safety agencies can now secure approvals more efficiently, reducing administrative burdens and delays.
Simplified Documentation Requirements
One of the most impactful changes is the reduction in documentation required for waiver applications. Agencies no longer need to submit lengthy Concept of Operations (CONOPS) documents. Instead, a straightforward questionnaire now serves to outline operational plans. For operations below 200 feet or within 50 feet of the highest obstacle, ADS-B technology compliance is sufficient under controlled airspace facility map grids.
For operations extending up to 400 feet, agencies must complete a DAA CMD form to detail their detect-and-avoid technology capabilities. Additionally, a Public Safety Organization (PSO) letter on agency letterhead is required to validate eligibility as a public aircraft operation. First-time applicants should also specify their status as a political subdivision, such as a city, county, or state entity.
Key Changes to Reporting and Validity
The updated process also eliminates the need for NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen), further simplifying operational requirements. While monthly reporting remains mandatory, it has been greatly streamlined to reduce administrative overhead. Notably, these new COWs are valid for four years, providing long-term operational stability for agencies. Organizations wishing to benefit from these extended terms or other updates can resubmit their applications under this new framework.
A Faster Path to Approval
Perhaps the most transformative aspect of these changes is the expedited timeline for approvals. Previously, obtaining a waiver could take up to ten months. With the new process, approvals are expected to be completed in just several weeks. Submissions are handled entirely via email through FAA Flight Standards at [email protected], eliminating reliance on systems like CAPS or DroneZone.
These advancements are the result of ongoing collaboration between the nationwide DFR Working Group, FAA officials, and other stakeholders. DRONERESPONDERS has played an active role in advocating for these changes, including recent meetings with both the FAA and White House officials. Industry leaders have also worked together to ensure consistent messaging and support for these reforms.
A New Era for Public Safety Drone Operations
The introduction of the COW process marks a significant leap forward for public safety agencies leveraging drones in emergency response. By simplifying and accelerating waiver approvals, the FAA is enabling faster deployment of drone technology to enhance public safety efforts. For additional resources and guidance on navigating this new process, visit DRONERESPONDERS.
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