[cashman]

I'm old school RC helicopter pilot.

It's scary (actually incredible) how they have made these things so easy to fly. I have a micro quad copter that I can toss into the air in any orientation and it will automatically self correct to level flight. This is unbelievable technology that was either impossible years ago or would have cost thousands of dollars to obtain.

Unfortunately this puts these machines in the hands of practically anyone that can afford one. Regardless of skill level, safety level, mental capacity, dedication to hobby, or motive.

Regulation will be a necessary evil. I saw one flying over the straightaway at the Petite Leman's at Road Atlanta. Image loosing control (like post #7) and taking out 5 cars going 150 MPH.
To a kid (and some not so stable adults), airports are great areas to learn to fly. Large open space with no trees. Imaging if/when one collides with a full scale aircraft.

We have just tipped the iceberg on this issue. This is relatively new technology that is becoming affordable to the masses. Wait until these larger drones replace the smaller "toys" that kids are currently getting under the xmas tree. It truly will be an issue in my opinion.