JOAN LOWY, Associated Press
JENNIFER AGIESTA, Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — Americans say they are skeptical that the benefits of the heralded drone revolution will outweigh the risks to privacy and safety, although a majority approve of using small, unmanned aircraft for dangerous jobs or in remote areas.

An Associated Press-GfK poll finds that by a 2-1 margin those who had an opinion opposed using drones for commercial purposes. Only 21 percent favor commercial use.

The government prohibits most commercial use of drones but is about to propose regulations to broaden the use of small ones.

It may be two or three years before the rules take effect, but once they do thousands are expected to buzz U.S. skies.

A trade group estimates drones will create 100,000 jobs and $82 billion in economic impact in the first 10 years they’re allowed.