Schemenauer Comments on FAA’s Proposed Beyond Visual Line-of-Sight Drone Rule in Law360

08.18.2025

Stinson LLP Partner Steve Schemenauer was quoted in Law360’s article, "What to Watch as FAA Preps Beyond Line-Of-Sight Drone Ops," discussing the FAA’s newly proposed rule for beyond visual line-of-sight drone operations.

Schemenauer, who chairs the firm’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Autonomous Vehicles practice group, noted, "From a business perspective, I think the innovation that the rule will drive, and the expanded applications for drone operations are huge. It will enable drones to tackle more complex, long-range missions and advance and help create new industries and economic opportunities."

The FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule would allow larger drones to operate beyond an operator’s visual line of sight, with standardized permits and certificates replacing the current case-by-case waiver process. Experts say the rule could unlock new commercial and civic uses for drones, from package delivery and agriculture to infrastructure inspection and disaster response.

Schemenauer represents businesses nationwide in complex commercial litigation and serves as a qualified mediator and arbitrator. He also advises on matters involving construction, real estate, insurance, cybersecurity, and unmanned aircraft systems and autonomous vehicles. A Major General in the Army National Guard with more than 34 years of service, Schemenauer brings unique operational and regulatory insight to his work, particularly in drone, construction, and cybersecurity law.

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