U.s. congressman Rodney davis proudly representing the 13th district of illinois

The future of the Decatur Airport and unmanned aerial vehicles were major issues addressed by U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis during a Thursday morning stop in Decatur.

About a dozen business leaders and others joined Davis, R-Taylorville, at the Decatur Airport; as each took turns over the hour raising their own thoughts and concerns related to almost everything aviation. Covered a range of topics, from the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as drones, to the importance of the airport to support community businesses.

Stu Ellis, a self-described observer of local agriculture, asked Davis about the restrictions placed on the use of drones by agriculture companies and farmers, who can use them to take photos of their crops and to get an up close look at their fields

“It's an important tool for agriculture,” he said. “Farmers need technology to remain profitable, and this technology will allow them to do that.”

Davis agreed with the sentiment, saying the Federal Aviation administration has been behind on drone regulation, and Congress needs to address it.

While he lamented the negative image people have about drones, associating them with the military, Davis said they can be a very useful tool.

“People don't realize the drone we're talking about here is nothing more than a hobby airplane,” he said. “I hope to loosen up some of these restrictions.”

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