The FAA just released a notice prohibiting flight of any aircraft carrying destructive devices. Unless, of course, it’s the government doing the flying...
Not sure that applies to the Flame thrower payload. It's not a destructive device per definition. It delivers fluid, sprays and can ignite... but that's not a bomb, ordnance or payload of destruction. There is also several payload devices that drop gel balls to assist in controlled burns. Those also aren't considered destructive devices... even though they are closer to the definition. Keep in mind these same tools: fire balls and spray systems have been on aircraft, experimental small aircraft and heli's for years.
That said, I agree this shouldn't be a everyone buys it type of device... or a neighborhood toy!
Similar to various folks buying backpack flame throwers that can handle diesel, gas, napalm gels too. Common sense screams caution, but they've all been available in several industries.
But in devils advocate mode... in the Ag, Country/Urban Pest control, Construction clearance, Forestry, etc... there are practical uses for burn systems and on a large platform sUAV (these are based on the M600Pro & S1000), I can see usefulness and reduce hazards for some operations.
I've been approached by Ranchers or Lg Farm Operators if I'd be intersted in using the Burn balls or the Sprayer payload (flame thrower) for methods to setup a controlled burn quickly on long ditch sections, back hilly sections, burn down a field section to clean up crop debri and to initiate a burn of an old structure. As advertised, can also see use for certain pest control. All of which would be monitored and managed by ground team... but initiated by sUAV. Several of these are actually safer compared to personel getting up in the area to initiate a solid ridge burn.
Several see the sprayer payload for other uses too... in a non-ignited usage... a liquid delivery. Spray chemicals on hard to reach ponds to clean up for cattle watering holes... Currtently hand tossed and poor coverage... much longer time to clean and results in excessive applications. Spary chemicals on roof top for fungus or algie control.
The news of a flame thrower has been advertised and several have run with it in all negative light. Possible... sure.... likely... doubt it when you consider all the other possibles easier to apply and produce a much bigger result... for less money.
But those willing to invest just to accomplish the illegal intended task: an M600Pro, multiple 6-Pak battery sets ($1800 avg per set) and the payload spray hardware... to spray a small amount of diesel fuel (15-25 feet)... just to play with an airborne flame system in a negative manner... certainly have the funds to apply to other methods that would be a lot more effective.