Title 1
Aeronautics

Chapter 8
Unpiloted Aerial Vehicles

R.I. Gen. Laws § 1-8-1.1

§ 1-8-1.1. Definitions.

When used in this chapter:

(1) “Municipality” means any city, town, or incorporated village within the state.

(2) “Operate” or “operation” means to fly, pilot, control, direct, or program the flight of an unpiloted aircraft system.

(3) “Unpiloted aerial vehicle” or “UAV” means a powered aerial vehicle that:

(i) Does not carry a human operator and is operated without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft;

(ii) Uses aerodynamic forces to provide vehicle lift;

(iii) Can fly autonomously or be piloted remotely;

(iv) Weighs less than fifty-five pounds (55 lbs.).

(4) “Unpiloted aircraft systems” or “UAS” means an unpiloted aerial vehicle and associated elements and support equipment required for the safe and efficient operation of the UAV.

History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 125, § 2, effective June 19, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 126, § 2, effective June 19, 2023.