NAA, AMA, Issue Statements After Suspect Apprehended

The National Aeronautic Association, the Aero Club of the United States and partner with the Academy of Model Aeronautics in the advancement of model aviation in the United States, issued a statement Thursday strongly condemning the alleged planning of the use of model aircraft for the purposes of domestic terrorism as outlined in the arrest of an individual by the FBI.

“The Academy of Model Aeronautics and its 143,000 members are the embodiment of education, professionalism, hobby, and friendly competition in the United States,” said Jonathan Gaffney, President and CEO of NAA. “To think that this individual could attempt to use this sport for anything resembling terrorism is disgraceful. While this individual has never been associated with the Academy or modeling, we have the utmost confidence in AMA to work with the proper authorities in any way possible to assist in this investigation."

A 26-year-old Massachusetts man was on arrested this week on federal charges for his intent to use an RC model airplane reconfigured as a UAV, similar to a military drone, for an explosive-laden attack on the U.S. Capitol and Pentagon. The suspect is not an AMA member nor has he been confirmed as being a model aviation enthusiast.

“When an otherwise safe and wholesome hobby becomes the focal point in a planned terrorist attack, we are as outraged as all citizens,” said AMA Interim President Mark Smith. “Like all Americans, we appreciate the professionalism of the FBI in this case. The AMA’s 143,000 aeromodelers throughout the country pledge to keep a vigilant eye in their communities on any suspicious activity with RC aircraft.”

“Modelers everywhere are outraged by the literal high-jacking of model aircraft for such a nefarious purpose,” said Rich Hanson, AMA’s Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs representative and former Vietnam helicopter pilot. “Our ... members follow a strict safety code, always fly within site, and remain clear of frangible property or people. When we hear this sort of item and activity labeled as a ‘model’ we are very concerned that our recreational and educational hobby is being misrepresented.”

In a statement to the media, the Department of Justice said "(t)he public was never in danger from the explosive devices, which were controlled by undercover FBI employees (UCs). The defendant was closely monitored as his alleged plot developed and the UCs were in frequent contact with him."

FMI: www.modelaircraft.org, www.naa.aero