FAA Issues Drone Warning Video, As Thousands Are Set To Receive Unmanned Aircraft As Gifts

The FAA is concerned that the thousands of Americans who find unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, under their Christmas trees this year might end up on Santa's naughty list, and have issued a warning for budding pilots.

Drones are among the most-wanted gifts this Christmas, and manufacturers have sold 200,000 units a month in 2014, a figure that is expected to double in 2015, according to an expert cited by CNBC.

As such, the FAA has created a dos and don'ts video for budding drone captains. The video, part of the “Know Before You Fly,” warns pilots: “Do fly your unmanned aircraft below 400 feet" and "Don't fly your aircraft beyond your line of sight."

In addition, the film, which seems primarily aimed at children, urges flyers to take a lesson before taking to the skies, and to refrain from flying near airports, stadiums or people, and not to pilot anything that weighs over 55 pounds.

The increase in air traffic caused by the popularity and relatively low cost of drones has concerned the FAA and other experts for some time. The FAA has criminalized the use of drones near stadiums, and violators could face up to a year in jail.

In addition, aviation expert Patrick Smith told International Business Times earlier this year that even a small, hand-held device could potentially bring down a jet.

There have been 25 near mid-air collision incidents involving aircraft and drones in the U.S. since June 1 alone, according to the Washington Post.

In addition to the video, the FAA has teamed with some drone manufacturers to produce a safety website.